At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses, connect with the community, and ensure safe journeys for passengers.
- Company: Join Arriva, a leading transport company dedicated to community service and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free bus travel for your family, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with overtime options and a diverse workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while enjoying career progression and a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid PCV Licence; excellent customer service skills required.
PCV Bus Driver
Location: Ashington Depot
Pay Rate
- Weekdays: £16.00 per hour (requires at least 18 months driving experience).
- Weekends: £16.45 per hour (requires at least 18 months driving experience).
- Bank Holiday: £30 bonus per shift.
- For drivers with at least 18 months bus driving experience in the last 5 years: £16.00 per hour basic; otherwise £14.00 per hour for 6 months.
- Before 1st April 2026: Weekdays £14.00 first 6 months, then £16.00. Weekends £14.45 first 6 months, then £16.45. Bank Holiday £30 per shift.
Benefits
- 28 days annual leave rising to 33 days
- Overtime opportunities
- Free bus travel within household
- Workplace pension
- Onsite gym
- Ongoing CPC training and career development opportunities
- Access to the MyDrive app with monthly rewards (£50 vouchers)
- Diverse and inclusive company culture
Hours of Work
5 out of 7 rotating shift patterns, planned up to 6-8 weeks in advance. Mornings starting from 05:00 and evenings finishing around 01:30. Overtime available based on request/availability.
Requirements
- Valid PCV Licence (non‑negotiable). If no licence, apply for trainee role.
- No more than 6 points on licence.
- Ability to pass a drug and alcohol test.
- Excellent customer service and people skills.
- Flexibility to work various shifts.
Contact Details:
Arriva Northumbria Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PCV Bus Driver in Ashington
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and routes serviced by Arriva. Knowing the streets, landmarks, and popular destinations can help you stand out during interviews, as it shows your commitment to the role and your potential to connect with the community.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your customer service skills in conversations with recruiters. As a bus driver, you'll be interacting with passengers daily, so demonstrating your ability to handle various situations and provide excellent service will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former Arriva employees if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and what they look for in candidates, which can give you an edge when applying for the PCV Bus Driver position.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shift patterns. Since the role requires working various shifts, showing that you're adaptable and willing to accommodate the company's needs can significantly enhance your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace PCV Bus Driver in Ashington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Qualifications:Make sure to clearly state your valid PCV licence in your application. This is a non-negotiable requirement, so it should be one of the first things the employer sees.
Showcase Customer Service Skills:Since excellent customer service and people skills are essential for this role, include specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to interact positively with customers.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect the job description. Emphasise any relevant driving experience, flexibility with shift patterns, and your commitment to community service, as these are key aspects of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention why you want to work for Arriva specifically and how you can contribute to their mission of serving the community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva Northumbria Limited
✨Show Your Passion for Community Service
As a PCV Bus Driver, your role is crucial in connecting the community. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for helping others and how you see yourself making a positive impact on people's daily lives.
✨Highlight Your Customer Service Skills
Excellent customer service is key in this role. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully handled difficult situations or provided exceptional service in previous jobs, showcasing your people skills.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Reliability
The job requires working various shifts, so it's important to convey your flexibility. Discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different schedules, emphasising your reliability as a driver.
✨Prepare for Safety and Compliance Questions
Safety is paramount in driving roles. Brush up on road safety regulations and be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance with driving laws and company policies, including your ability to pass drug and alcohol tests.
