At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive HGV Class 1 vehicles, ensuring safe and secure transport of goods.
- Company: Join a family-run business with over 75 years of experience in British apples and pears.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, pension scheme, eyecare vouchers, and extensive learning opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy flexible hours, regular pay, and fun company events.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a real impact in the food industry.
- Qualifications: HGV Class 1 license and a can-do attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 48000 £ per year.
Our growing business has been all about British apples and pears since 1947. From father to son, every day for over 75 years, our family business is growing. We innovate and change but our values always stay the same. We're a team who pride ourselves on the Goathams way, passionate about growing the very best quality British apples and pears.
We have excellent opportunities available for experienced and responsible individuals to join our transport department in the role of HGV Class 1 Driver. The purpose of this role is to ensure our goods are transported both safely and securely. The post holder will be responsible for ensuring strict adherence to UK driving laws and legislation and ensuring respect for the environment and public. Please note, vehicles are allocated on a job basis and therefore you will not necessarily be assigned a permanent truck to operate.
Responsibilities Include:
- Ensuring all aspects of safety and customer site rules are adhered to.
- Ensuring all transport legislation including drivers hours and vehicle defect reporting is adhered to.
- Taking responsibility for the security of any products carried whilst in transit. This can include long distance journeys which may mean spending occasional nights away from home.
- To drive in a safe and economic manner in line with UK driving laws and legislation.
- Carrying out various trailer work; including chilled refrigerators, curtain siders, low loaders and containers.
- Ensuring all delivery and collection notes and paperwork are correct.
- Providing accurate paperwork relevant to debriefing of allocated jobs.
- Providing an exceptional standard of service to our customers and colleagues.
- Operating a forklift or pump truck as and when required to load and/or unload vehicles.
- Maintaining cleanliness of company vehicles and wearing any PPE as required.
- Occasional operating of our 30 seater company bus.
Our perfect HGV Class 1 Driver would have:
- A HGV Class 1 license and current Tacho Card is essential.
- A PSV license would prove advantageous, or alternatively the willingness to undertake the training (funded by the company).
- Proven working experience of operating HGV Class 1 Vehicles is essential.
- Understanding of and adherence to health and safety protocols and food hygiene standards.
- The ability to interpret and follow written and spoken instructions.
- Comfortable with a physical role where manual handling is a frequent requirement.
- A can-do attitude with the ability to use own initiative.
- The ability to commit to a flexible and often unsociable working pattern and hours.
The hours you would work:
An average of a 55 hour working week comprising of a rolling shift pattern of 5 on 1 off (week one) and 5 on 2 off (week 2). Please note, this averages as 1 in 12 full weekends off.
Rate of pay:
£17.90 for the first 40 hours, £22.37 after 40 hours. An additional allowance paid for overnight stays. Additional bonus paid for driving of 30 seater buses.
What else we can offer you:
- Loyalty rewarded - earn an extra day of holiday for every 2 years of service.
- Secure your future - You will be automatically enrolled in the company pension scheme after three months of service (contributions: employee 5%, employer 3%).
- Eyecare vouchers to help you look after your vision.
- Fortnightly pay for regular, reliable income.
- Extensive learning & development platform, available in multiple languages to support your growth.
- Company accommodation available where required.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) offering confidential support whenever you need it.
- Private GP service for fast, convenient access to medical advice.
- Free onsite parking.
- Festive fun with our all-staff December advent calendar and prizes to be won.
- Exclusive BHN discounts on a wide range of brands and services.
- Free Will Writing Opportunities twice a year.
- Education - Free English Training Opportunities.
- Study Sponsorship opportunities.
- Free Fruit.
Locations
HGV Class 1 Driver in Kent, Rochester employer: A.C. Goatham And Son
Join our family-run business, steeped in tradition since 1947, where we pride ourselves on delivering the finest British apples and pears. As an HGV Class 1 Driver, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that values safety, responsibility, and environmental respect, alongside competitive pay and benefits such as loyalty rewards, extensive training opportunities, and a company pension scheme. With a commitment to employee growth and well-being, including access to private medical services and an Employee Assistance Programme, we ensure that every team member feels valued and empowered in their role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Class 1 Driver in Kent, Rochester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow drivers, join local transport groups, and connect with industry professionals on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK driving laws and safety protocols. Be ready to share your experiences and how you’ve handled challenges on the road. Confidence is key, so practice makes perfect!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values. Check out our website for opportunities at Goathams, where you can be part of a family business that’s been thriving since 1947. It’s all about quality and passion here!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision. Let them know you’re keen to join the team!
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Class 1 Driver in Kent, Rochester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience with HGV Class 1 vehicles. We want to see that you know your stuff and can handle the responsibilities that come with the role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and get straight to what makes you a great fit for the job. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can follow instructions well!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to our company values and the specifics of the job description. Show us how your skills align with our commitment to safety and quality in transporting British apples and pears.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at A.C. Goatham And Son
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HGV Class 1 regulations and safety protocols. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the role, such as driving hours and vehicle maintenance. This shows that you're serious about the job and understand what it takes to be a responsible driver.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous driving experience in detail. Highlight any long-distance journeys you've completed and how you've adhered to transport legislation. Sharing specific examples will help demonstrate your capability and reliability as a driver.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since this role involves working closely with colleagues and customers, it's important to showcase your teamwork skills. Talk about times when you've collaborated effectively with others, whether it's ensuring smooth deliveries or maintaining vehicle cleanliness. This will show that you value the Goathams way of working.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the company culture, training opportunities, or how they support drivers during long-distance trips. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.