At a Glance
- Tasks: Safely operate Class 1 HGV vehicles and ensure timely deliveries across the UK.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a leading packaging company with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, modern vehicles, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a flagship site driving change in sustainable packaging.
- Qualifications: Valid Class 1 Licence and a professional attitude towards safety.
The predicted salary is between 31758 - 38816 £ per year.
Location: DS Smith Packaging, Fordham
Shift Pattern: Nights, Monday – Friday (additional 6th shift, 8 per year on rota) & Sunday to Thursday shifts available.
Average Hours: Up to 48 hours per week (26-week reference period)
Reporting To: Transport Manager
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 UK. 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 Shift 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.
- Prepare trailers ready for loading / unloading.
- Communicate professionally with customers, colleagues, and supervisors to resolve delivery queries.
- Adhere to Driver CPC, tachograph, and working time regulations.
- Be available for occasional overnight stays with expenses covered.
About You
Essential Skills & Experience
- Valid Class 1 (C+E) Licence – maximum 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.
- Working 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
- Modern, well-maintained fleet (articulated curtainsiders).
- Comprehensive training from our in-house driver trainer.
- Competitive salary (reflecting shift pattern).
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.
- Strong safety culture with ongoing training and support.
If you are a professional Class 1 Driver looking for a reliable, long-term role with a leading packaging company, we’d love to hear from you!
HGV Driver in Newmarket employer: DS Smith
At DS Smith, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Our Global Governance Assistant Secretary role offers not only competitive benefits but also ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic international environment. Join us in our commitment to sustainability and innovation, where your contributions will make a meaningful impact across our global operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Driver in Newmarket
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like DS Smith.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by DS Smith. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Driver in Newmarket
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at DS Smith, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at DS Smith and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into DS Smith. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at DS Smith.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to DS Smith.
