At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses, connect with passengers, and ensure safe travel.
- Company: Join Arriva, a community-focused transport company in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid training, flexible shifts, free travel for you and family, and discounts.
- Other info: Rotating shifts planned in advance; overtime available upon request.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team, make a difference, and enjoy career progression.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, hold a valid UK driving licence, and have great customer service skills.
Bus Driver – Runcorn Depot (Pay: £15.07 – £27.45 per hour)
Join Arriva as a Bus Driver and play a vital role in connecting our community to what matters most. Whether you are an experienced PCV Driver or starting a new career as a Trainee Bus Driver, this role offers robust training and clear career progression.
Pay Rates
- Trainee Driver – £15.07 per hour (first 3 weeks)
- After Training (Trainees):
- Monday to Friday – £15.07 per hour, rising to £18.30 after 12 months
- Saturday & Sunday – £18.84 per hour, rising to £22.88 after 12 months
- Bank Holiday – £22.60, rising to £27.45 after 12 months
- Overtime: Flat rate
What’s in It for You
- Full paid training, including PCV licence acquisition through our Arriva Training School.
- Ongoing CPC training and professional development opportunities.
- Career progression into management, support training or specialist driver roles.
- Flexible 5‑out‑of‑7 rotating shift patterns, planned 6‑8 weeks in advance.
- Free bus travel for you and a nominee.
- Access to Arriva Village for store discounts.
- Free staff bus and shuttle services to and from work.
- Monthly rewards through the Mydrive app for top-performing drivers.
Shift Patterns
Mornings start from 04:00, Afternoons from 12:00, and Evenings from 18:00, rotating on a 5‑of‑7 basis. Overtime is available on request based on availability.
Requirements
- Age 18 or over with a minimum of 12 months of driving experience.
- Valid UK driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points.
- Pass a drug and alcohol test.
- Excellent customer service and communication skills.
- Demonstrate a proactive, friendly, and responsible attitude.
Why Join Arriva
Arriva values inclusion and diversity, offering a supportive environment where you can thrive as a driver and grow your career. Join us to become part of a team passionate about connecting people and communities in a safe and reliable manner.
Trainee Bus Driver in Runcorn employer: Arriva North West Limited
Arriva North West Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can lead a dedicated team and make a real impact on public transport efficiency across the UK. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we provide numerous opportunities for career advancement, alongside a supportive culture that values safety and operational excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Bus Driver in Runcorn
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and bus routes in Runcorn. This knowledge will not only help you during your training but also impress the hiring team with your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your customer service skills by volunteering or working in roles that require interaction with the public. This experience can demonstrate your ability to connect with passengers, which is crucial for a Bus Driver.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the drug and alcohol test by ensuring you are aware of any substances that could affect your results. Being proactive about this shows responsibility and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former bus drivers to gain insights into the job and the company culture at Arriva. Their experiences can provide valuable tips and may even lead to a referral.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Bus Driver in Runcorn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Trainee Bus Driver at Arriva. Familiarise yourself with the job description and requirements to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you haven't worked as a bus driver before, emphasise any customer service experience or roles that required strong communication skills. This will show that you have the right attitude for the job.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for community service and your desire to connect with people. Mention why you want to work for Arriva specifically and how you align with their values.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva North West Limited
✨Show Your Passion for Customer Service
As a Trainee Bus Driver, you'll be interacting with passengers daily. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for providing excellent customer service during the interview. Share any previous experiences where you helped others or went the extra mile for customers.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle various situations with passengers, such as resolving conflicts or providing information. Practising clear and confident responses can help showcase your skills.
✨Highlight Your Driving Experience
Since the job requires a valid UK driving licence and at least 12 months of driving experience, be ready to talk about your driving history. Mention any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to drive safely and responsibly.
✨Prepare for Shift Flexibility Questions
The role involves rotating shifts, so expect questions about your availability. Be honest about your flexibility and willingness to adapt to different shift patterns. Showing that you're open to working various hours will make you a more attractive candidate.
