At a Glance
- Tasks: Safely operate Class 1 HGV vehicles and ensure on-time deliveries.
- Company: Join DS Smith Packaging, the flagship UK site with a supportive team.
- Benefits: 33 days holiday, sick scheme, training, and pension.
- Why this job: Drive modern trucks and be part of a strong safety culture.
- Qualifications: Valid Class 1 Licence, Driver CPC, and a professional attitude.
- Other info: Career development opportunities in a growing business.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: DS Smith Packaging, Fordham (Flagship UK Site)
Average Hours: Up to 48 hours per week (26-week reference period)
Reporting To: Transport Manager
About Us
As the flagship UK site for DS Smith Packaging, we operate our own fleet of HGV drivers, delivering high-quality cardboard packaging to blue-chip customers across the Midlands and East of England. Our Transport team is key to our success, and we pride ourselves on inspiring leadership, modern vehicles, and a supportive work environment. We are currently recruiting Night Class 1 Drivers to join our team, operating modern articulated curtainsider trucks for palletised deliveries and paper reel collections.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate Class 1 HGV vehicles in compliance with all traffic laws and company policies.
- Follow designated routes and schedules, ensuring on-time deliveries to customers nationwide.
- Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, reporting any defects or maintenance needs.
- Maintain accurate records of deliveries, mileage, fuel usage, and incidents.
- Assist with loading/unloading where required (palletised goods, paper reels, and returns).
- Communicate professionally with customers, colleagues, and supervisors to resolve delivery queries.
- Adhere to Driver CPC, tachograph, and working time regulations.
About You
Essential Skills & Experience
- Valid Class 1 (CE) Licence with a maximum of 3 penalty points.
- Driver CPC Qualification & Digital Tachograph Card.
- Strong knowledge of UK driving regulations (WTD, drivers hours, etc.).
- Professional attitude with a strong safety record.
- Reliable, flexible, and a team player with a 'can-do' approach.
- Good understanding of UK geography & route planning.
- Ability to lift heavy loads and work in a physically demanding role.
Desirable (But Not Essential)
- Previous LGV1 driving experience (new entrants also considered).
- Familiarity with warehouse operations and loading equipment.
Working Conditions & Benefits
- Sick scheme after a qualifying period.
- 33 days holiday including bank holidays.
- One to one CPC training provided in house.
- Uniform & PPE provided.
- Discretionary Bonus.
- Paid driver medicals.
- Pension.
- Employee assistance programme.
- Access to digital GP.
Why Join DS Smith Fordham?
- Be part of the UK flagship site with a supportive Transport team.
- Drive modern HGVs with structured routes and schedules.
- Career development opportunities within a growing business.
- Strong safety culture with ongoing training and support.
Locations
Driver in Newmarket, Suffolk employer: DS Smith Packaging Limited
Contact Detail:
DS Smith Packaging Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Driver in Newmarket, Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current drivers or employees at DS Smith Packaging on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the job. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of UK driving regulations and safety practices. Be ready to discuss how you handle challenges on the road. Show us that you're not just a driver, but a problem-solver too!
✨Tip Number 3
When you get the chance to meet the team, whether in person or virtually, be yourself! Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about joining our supportive Transport team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about wanting to be part of the DS Smith family.
We think you need these skills to ace Driver in Newmarket, Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Driving Skills: Make sure to highlight your valid Class 1 (CE) Licence and any relevant driving experience in your application. We want to see that you know your stuff when it comes to UK driving regulations and safety!
Be Professional and Personable: Since you'll be communicating with customers and colleagues, it's important to convey a professional attitude in your written application. Let us know how you handle delivery queries and work as part of a team.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and align your skills and experiences with what we're looking for. A tailored application shows us you're genuinely interested in joining our Transport team at DS Smith.
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity at our flagship site!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith Packaging Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK driving regulations and the specifics of operating Class 1 HGV vehicles. Familiarise yourself with the routes you might be taking and any relevant company policies. This will show that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Show Off Your Safety Record
Safety is a big deal in this job, so be prepared to discuss your driving history and any safety measures you've taken in previous roles. Highlight your strong safety record and how you ensure compliance with traffic laws and company policies. This will help build trust with your potential employer.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific scenarios on the road, such as dealing with delivery delays or vehicle inspections. Think through your answers beforehand and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate effectively with customers and colleagues.
✨Dress the Part
Even though you’ll be driving, first impressions matter! Dress smartly for the interview to show that you take the opportunity seriously. It reflects your professionalism and respect for the company’s culture, which can go a long way in making a positive impression.