At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses, connect with your community, and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Arriva, a leading transport provider connecting communities across Europe.
- Benefits: Enjoy full paid training, overtime opportunities, free bus travel, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible shifts starting as early as 4AM; great for those seeking varied hours.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of your community and enjoy fantastic career progression in a diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, hold a UK driving licence, and pass a drug test.
Overview
Trainee Bus Driver £14.50 - £20.19 per hour. Start your bus driving career with Arriva at our Stevenage depot, where you will be at the heart of your community! Whether it is getting commuters to work, helping customers with pops to the shops or getting children to school – we provide an important service in connecting our customers to what matters to them. As a Bus Driver, you will get to know the familiar faces on your routes, build relationships and even be the highlight of someone’s day.
Pay Rate: £14.50 - £20.19 per hour. During Training and Mentoring – Basic Rate £14.50 per hour; Overtime £15.70 per hour. After Training & Mentoring – Basic Rate £18.35 per hour; Overtime £20.19 per hour. Pay is subject to annual discussion.
What’s in it for you?
- Full paid training; you’ll receive your PCV licence through our Arriva Training School and learn everything you need to know about being a Bus Driver.
- The training generally lasts approximately 4 weeks – first week at our Luton depot and the remainder at Stevenage, followed by a mentor period of a few weeks.
- Overtime opportunities – extra shifts, bank holidays, all paid at a premium rate.
- Ongoing CPC training.
- Development and great career opportunities – into management, support training, or as an expert driver.
Hours of work and role
- A rotating shift pattern of 5 days in 7, published up to 6‑8 weeks in advance to allow planning.
- Mornings start from 04:00, Afternoons from 12:00, Evenings from 18:00 on a rotational basis. We cannot offer fixed early, afternoon or evenings separately.
- Overtime available.
Requirements
- Must be over 18 years of age.
- Have a UK driving licence and have been driving for a minimum of 6 months.
- No more than 6 points on your licence.
- Will need to undergo a drug and alcohol test before assessment.
- Will need to pass an English comprehension test.
- Great people skills.
- Flexibility, as shifts can start as early as 4AM and finish no later than 1AM depending on start time.
Benefits
- Access to the ‘Arriva Village’ for store discounts and offers.
- Employee assistance program.
- Free bus travel for you and your family (within the same household).
- Arriva Workplace Pension.
- Career progression opportunities.
- Long‑service awards.
- 20 days of holiday plus bank holidays.
We acknowledge the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of our talent strategy. The creation of a diverse, inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential and enhance our success.
Trainee Bus Driver in Stevenage employer: Arriva Kent Thameside Limited
Arriva is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment at our Stevenage depot, where you can make a real difference in your community as a Trainee Bus Driver. With full paid training to obtain your PCV licence, competitive pay rates, and numerous opportunities for career progression, you will be part of a team that values customer service and employee development. Enjoy additional benefits such as free bus travel for you and your family, store discounts, and a commitment to diversity that enhances our workplace culture.
Contact Details:
Arriva Kent Thameside Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Bus Driver in Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and bus routes in Stevenage. Knowing the streets and key landmarks will not only help you during your training but also impress your trainers and future colleagues.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your customer service skills during the interview process. Think of examples from previous jobs or experiences where you provided excellent service, as this is a key aspect of being a Bus Driver at Arriva.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shift patterns. Since the role requires early starts and late finishes, showing that you can adapt to these hours will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Connect with current or former Arriva employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the company culture and what it’s like to work there, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Bus Driver in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any customer service roles or driving experience. Emphasise skills like communication and flexibility, which are crucial for a Bus Driver.
Write a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for community service and how you can contribute to Arriva's mission. Mention your understanding of the role and why you want to be part of their team.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Clearly state that you meet the requirements, such as holding a UK driving licence for at least 6 months. If you have any additional qualifications or training related to driving or customer service, include those too.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail, which is important in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva Kent Thameside Limited
✨Know Your Routes
Familiarise yourself with the local area and key routes you might be driving. Being able to discuss your knowledge of the community during the interview will show your commitment to the role and understanding of the importance of connecting with customers.
✨Emphasise Customer Service Skills
As a Bus Driver, you'll be interacting with various passengers daily. Highlight any previous experience in customer service, and be prepared to share examples of how you've handled difficult situations or provided excellent service.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
The role requires early starts and late finishes, so it's essential to convey your willingness to adapt to a rotating shift pattern. Be honest about your availability and express enthusiasm for the varied hours.
✨Prepare for Assessments
You’ll need to pass an English comprehension test and undergo a drug and alcohol test. Brush up on your English skills and be ready to discuss your driving history, ensuring you meet the requirements outlined in the job description.
