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- Tasks: Drive Class 1 HGVs, transporting refrigerated loads across the UK and into France.
- Company: Join a dynamic company with a focus on teamwork and employee well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, profit sharing, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for training and progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital role that keeps the supply chain moving while exploring new places.
- 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
- 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)
- 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
- 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
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 Torbay
Contact Detail:
Driver Hire Torbay 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 or industry contacts on social media. Join relevant groups and forums where you can share experiences and find job leads. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of EU drivers' hours and regulations. Show us you’re serious about the role by being ready to discuss how you manage your time and keep your vehicle in top shape. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows you’re genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll have access to all the latest roles we have available, including those sweet opportunities for Class 1 HGV drivers like yourself!
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 you have. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but also ready to tackle the challenges of transporting refrigerated loads across the UK and into France.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your qualifications and experience. This helps us see why you’d be a great fit for the role!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take a moment to tailor your responses to our job description. Mention your strong communication skills and flexibility, 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 for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Driver Hire Torbay
✨Know Your Route
Familiarise yourself with the key routes across the UK and into France. Being able to discuss your geographical knowledge during the interview will show that you’re prepared and understand the demands of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
If you have experience driving a Class 1 HGV, be ready to share specific examples. Talk about the types of loads you've transported, any challenges you've faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability and reliability.
✨Highlight Your Independence
Since this role requires working independently for extended periods, emphasise your ability to manage your time and responsibilities. Share examples of how you've successfully worked alone in previous roles, especially under pressure.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about daily vehicle checks and paperwork. Brush up on EU drivers' hours regulations and be ready to explain how you ensure compliance. Showing that you take pride in doing the job right will resonate well with the interviewers.