Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Transport British apples and pears safely while adhering to driving laws.
- Company: Family-run business with a rich history in growing quality fruit since 1947.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 28 days holiday, pension scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and drive for a company that values tradition and innovation.
- Qualifications: HGV Class 1 licence and a can-do attitude are essential.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career growth and additional perks.
Our growing business has been all about British apples and pears since 1947. 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 driver’s 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:
£17.36 for the first 40 hours, £21.70 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:
- 28 days holiday including bank holidays (with an opportunity to earn more holiday based on your length of service).
- Pension scheme.
- Fortnightly pay.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Discretionary Christmas bonus.
- Free onsite parking.
- Access to free Wi-Fi.
- Free fresh fruit.
HGV Class 1 Driver in Rochester employer: AC Goatham & Son
Contact Detail:
AC Goatham & Son Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Class 1 Driver in 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 Goatham’s and show them you’re passionate about quality transport and customer service.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your application or interview! A quick email thanking them for the opportunity shows your enthusiasm and keeps you on their radar. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Class 1 Driver in Rochester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your HGV Class 1 licence and any relevant experience in your application. We want to see that you’ve got the skills to drive safely and securely, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and get straight to the point about your experience and why you’re a great fit for our team. We appreciate honesty and clarity!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and align your application with what we’re looking for. Mention specific responsibilities or qualities that match your experience – it shows us you’re genuinely interested!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super simple to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at AC Goatham & Son
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HGV Class 1 regulations and safety protocols. Familiarise yourself with UK driving laws, as well as the specific requirements for transporting goods safely and securely. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous driving experience in detail. Highlight any long-distance journeys you've undertaken, your familiarity with different types of trailers, and how you've adhered to transport legislation in past roles. Real-life examples will make your application stand out.
✨Demonstrate Your Customer Service Skills
Since providing an exceptional standard of service is key, think of instances where you've gone above and beyond for customers or colleagues. Whether it’s ensuring timely deliveries or maintaining communication, showing that you value customer satisfaction can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about handling unexpected situations, like vehicle breakdowns or delays. Think through how you would manage these scenarios while adhering to safety and legal standards. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
