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- Tasks: Drive buses, connect with passengers, and ensure safe travel.
- Company: Arriva is a community-focused transport company dedicated to excellent customer service.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid training, flexible shifts, free bus travel, and discounts.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team, make a difference, and enjoy career progression.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, hold a valid UK driving licence, and have good communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunities for both experienced drivers and trainees available.
Bus Driver
£12.60 – £14.75 per hour
Start Your Bus Driving Career with Arriva at our Heckmondwike depot– PCV and Trainee Opportunities Available!
At Arriva, you’ll be at the heart of your community, helping commuters get to work, children to school, and neighbours to the shops. Whether you’re an experienced PCV Driver or looking to start a new career as a Trainee Bus Driver, we have a role for you.
As a Bus Driver, you’ll build relationships with regular passengers, be a friendly face, and play a vital role in connecting our customers to what matters most. Did you know Bus Drivers are among the most thanked professionals in the UK?
We’re proud of our customer service and the support we provide to the community. If you’re a like-minded individual with a passion for people, we’d love to have you on our team!
Pay Rates:
Trainee Driver – Pay Rate: £12.60 – £14.75 per hour
£12.60 per hour – During training and mentoring (around 8 weeks).
£13.20 per hour – 6 months’ probation period.
£14.75 per hour – after successful probation completion.
Fully Qualified PCV Drivers
Pay Rate: £13.20 – £14.75 per hour
£13.20 per hour for the first 6 months of probation (*Must have 1-year of PCV experience in the last 5 years).
£14.75 after passing your probation (*Must have 1-year PCV experience to move to a higher rate).
Pay rates reviewed via frequent pay negotiations.
What’s in It for You?
- Trainee Drivers: Full paid training, including obtaining your PCV licence through our Arriva Training School.
- Ongoing CPC training for all drivers and professional development opportunities.
- Career progression into management, support training, or becoming an expert driver.
- Flexible and rotating shifts planned 6-8 weeks in advance.
- Free bus travel for you and your family (or a nominee).
- Access to the Arriva Village for store discounts and offers.
- Free staff bus and shuttle services to and from work.
- Monthly rewards through the Mydrive app for top-performing drivers.
Shift Patterns:
- 5 out of 7 rotating shift patterns, planned up to 6-8 weeks in advance so you can plan around shifts.
- Mornings starting from 04:00, Afternoons start from 12:00 and Evenings from 18:00 on a rotational basis.
- We cannot offer fixed early, afternoon or evenings separately.
- Overtime available on request.
Requirements:
- Be over 18 years old with at least 6 months of driving experience.
- Hold a valid UK driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points.
- Pass a drug and alcohol test.
- Great customer service and communication skills.
- Hold a full PCV licence (if qualified PCV driver)
- CPC holder (if qualified PCV driver)
- No more than 6 penalty points.
- Pass a drug and alcohol test.
- Demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills.
Why Join Arriva?
At Arriva, we’re not just connecting passengers; we’re creating a community that values inclusion and diversity. Whether you’re an experienced driver or starting your journey as a trainee, you’ll enjoy paid training, enhanced pay rates, and a supportive team environment where you can thrive.
Take the wheel of your future—apply today and become part of the Arriva family at our Heckmondwike depot!
Contact Detail:
Arriva Yorkshire Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bus Driver
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and bus routes. Knowing the streets and key landmarks will not only help you during the interview but also show your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your customer service skills. Since you'll be interacting with passengers daily, demonstrating your ability to handle various situations with a friendly attitude can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions in the interview. Think about how you would handle difficult passengers or unexpected situations on the road, as this will showcase your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former bus drivers if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Bus Driver
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Bus Driver at Arriva. Familiarise yourself with the job description and requirements to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have previous driving experience or customer service roles, be sure to highlight these in your CV and cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and how they relate to the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for customer service and community engagement. Mention why you want to work for Arriva specifically and how you can contribute to their mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva Yorkshire Limited
✨Know Your Routes
Familiarise yourself with the local area and key bus routes. Being able to discuss your knowledge of the community during the interview will show your commitment to the role and your potential as a friendly face for passengers.
✨Highlight Customer Service Skills
Since this role is all about connecting with people, be prepared to share examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. This could include handling difficult situations or going the extra mile for customers.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Safety is paramount in driving. Be ready to talk about your understanding of road safety regulations and how you ensure the safety of your passengers. Mention any relevant experience or training that highlights your commitment to safe driving.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company culture, training opportunities, and career progression. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
