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- Tasks: Drive Class 1 HGV across the UK and France, transporting refrigerated loads.
- Company: Join a dynamic company with a focus on employee well-being and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, profit sharing, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for training and personal development.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values independence and offers great career progression.
- Qualifications: Valid Class 1 licence and Driver CPC required; experience preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 49489 - 49489 £ per year.
We are looking to recruit a Class 1 HGV driver for a permanent relief role based in Buckfastleigh, Devon, covering distribution runs across the UK and into France. You will be transporting refrigerated loads from a farm site to distribution hubs, stepping in for planned driver absences. This is a physically demanding, independent role for someone who takes pride in doing the job right.
Location: Buckfastleigh, Devon (TQ11). Travel across the UK and into France is required. This is a site‑based role with regular overnight stays away from home.
Salary: £49,489.44 per annum, with additional earnings available through overnight allowances and overtime when offered.
Key Responsibilities:
- Transport refrigerated loads from the depot to distribution hubs across the UK and into France
- Carry out daily vehicle walk‑around checks and maintain trailer temperature records
- Complete all paperwork including weekly timesheets accurately and on time
- Follow EU drivers’ hours and Working Time Directive regulations at all times
- Carry out loading and unloading duties using pallet trucks and counterbalance forklifts where required
- Keep the cab and trailer clean, tidy, and in good order
- Carry out any additional duties in line with operational requirements
Qualifications:
Essential:
- Valid Class 1 (CE) licence with no more than 6 penalty points
- Valid Driver CPC qualification
Preferred But Not Essential:
- Minimum 1 year experience driving a goods vehicle
- Counterbalance and powered pallet truck certificates (training available for the right candidate)
Personal Qualities Required:
- Strong communication skills
- Good geographical knowledge of the UK
- Flexible and adaptable, comfortable working weekends and overnight
- Dependable and able to work independently for extended periods
Benefits:
- 33 days’ holiday pro rata including bank holidays, rising by 2 days at 5 years’ service
- Annual profit share scheme, with at least 10% of company profits shared equally across all employees
- Generous co‑owner pension scheme
- 30% staff discount on all products
- Organic meals provided on site at main locations
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
- Clothing allowance
- Life assurance cover
- Bike loan scheme
- Two paid volunteer days per year
- Free social events and company celebrations throughout the year
- Access to mental health first aiders, counselling, and physiotherapy services
- Training and progression opportunities, including fully funded apprenticeships
- Referral bonus if you recommend a friend who joins the team
Working Pattern:
This is a permanent contract for 48 hours per week, working 5 to 6 days on a rotating rota that includes weekends. Sunday working is a regular requirement, and some Saturdays will also be needed. Start and finish times vary, with predominantly afternoon starts finishing in the early hours. This role involves an average of 3 overnight stays per week, which may increase to 5 based on operational demand. Flexibility is essential.
Class 1 HGV Driver (Tramper/Relief Driver) in Buckfastleigh employer: Driver Hire/dh Recruitment (Torbay & Barnstaple)
Contact Detail:
Driver Hire/dh Recruitment (Torbay & Barnstaple) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Class 1 HGV Driver (Tramper/Relief Driver) in Buckfastleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow drivers, join online forums, and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn. 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 EU driving regulations and vehicle checks. Be ready to share your experiences and how you handle the demands of long-distance driving, especially those overnight stays!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your flexibility! Highlight your willingness to work weekends and adapt to changing schedules. Employers love candidates who can jump in when needed, especially for relief roles like this one.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for dedicated drivers who take pride in their work, just like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Class 1 HGV Driver (Tramper/Relief Driver) in Buckfastleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your Class 1 HGV licence and any relevant experience in your application. We want to see how you can bring your driving skills to our team, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this role. Mention your flexibility and ability to work independently, as these are key qualities we’re looking for in a Class 1 HGV driver.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Driver Hire/dh Recruitment (Torbay & Barnstaple)
✨Know Your Route
Familiarise yourself with the geographical areas you'll be covering. Brush up on your knowledge of UK and French roads, as well as any specific routes relevant to the job. This will show your potential employer that you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your driving experience in detail. Highlight any previous roles where you transported goods, especially refrigerated loads. If you have experience with loading and unloading using pallet trucks or forklifts, make sure to mention it!
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Since this role requires working weekends and overnight stays, be ready to talk about your availability and willingness to adapt. Share examples from past jobs where you had to be flexible with your schedule, as this will reassure them that you can handle the demands of the position.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about EU drivers’ hours and regulations, as well as how you maintain vehicle checks and paperwork. Brush up on these topics so you can confidently answer and demonstrate your understanding of the responsibilities involved in the role.