Employee Interviews

T.K. (30s)

Q. Why did you join Setouchi Rikuun?

I previously worked in the restaurant industry, but I wanted a job where I could put my physical stamina to use, so I decided to change careers. I had no experience in the transport industry at all, but the program under which the company pays 100% of license acquisition costs is what drew me to apply. The atmosphere at the interview was great, too, and I felt this was a place where I could start with confidence.

Q. What makes the work rewarding?

My job is driving a large truck long-distance from Shikoku to the Kanto and Kansai regions. I was nervous at first, but ride-along training with senior drivers gave me confidence. The sense of accomplishment when I deliver cargo safely is second to none. These days I am also entrusted with training junior drivers.

Q. What do you like most about the company?

There is also housing support, so I have no worries about daily life, which is a big plus. Also, as a G-Mark certified company, safety awareness is high and I can work with peace of mind. I get plenty of days off, so I can make time for my family as well.

S.M. (20s)

Q. Were you nervous about joining with no experience?

Honestly, I had never even driven a truck, so I was full of worries. But right after I joined there was classroom training where I learned traffic laws and the basics of trucks thoroughly. In the ride-along training that followed, a senior driver sat beside me and taught me everything one step at a time, so within three months I was able to drive on my own with confidence.

Q. Was there any gap between your expectations and the reality?

I had the image that “trucking = tough,” but in reality I get proper days off and overtime is properly managed. Safety is also well managed with digital tachographs and dashcams, so I can work with peace of mind.

Q. What are your goals for the future?

Right now I make deliveries within Shikoku in a medium truck, but next year I plan to use the company’s support program to obtain my large vehicle license. In the future, I want to drive all over Japan as a long-distance driver.

Y.H. (40s)

Q. What is distinctive about maintenance work at Setouchi Rikuun?

The company owns a fleet of around 307 vehicles, so we get to work on a wide range of vehicle types, from large trucks to small vehicles, which is a real draw. As a certified maintenance shop, we also handle Shaken (mandatory vehicle inspections) and maintenance for outside customers, which broadens your skill set as a mechanic.

Q. What is the workplace atmosphere like?

The maintenance team is a 12-person team with great teamwork. It is an environment where you can ask about anything right away, and the company invests actively in new technology and equipment, so we have the latest diagnostic tools on hand.

Q. How is your work-life balance?

The standard hours are 8:30 to 17:00, and there is almost no overtime. Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays are off, so I get plenty of time with my family. Unlike drivers, there are no night shifts either, so being able to keep a regular daily routine is a real plus.