At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive HGV Class 1 vehicles, collect and transport waste containers across Essex.
- Company: Essex County Council, a dynamic local authority committed to community service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and support for unpaid carers.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Why this job: Join a vital service that keeps Essex clean and green while gaining valuable driving experience.
- Qualifications: Valid HGV licence and driver CPC required; experience with various vehicles preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30428 - 35797 £ per year.
Permanent, Full Time
£30,428 to £35,797 per annum
Location: Chelmsford
Working Style: Operational field-based worker
Closing Date: 9th June 2026
The Role
Helping keep the waste services across Essex rolling by collecting containers from any of our 21 RCHW’s and taking them to a number of tipping locations based across the county. As a Class 1 driver you’ll be taking a Wag & Drag moving Roll-On/Roll-Off containers. This is not your traditional driving job; you may also be asked to move containers around our sites - discussing with the site managers of our RCHW’s to ensure smooth running of the sites. Many of our sites operate seven days a week so there will be some weekend shifts, there will be a +8% uplift for weekend and Bank Holiday working.
The Opportunity
- To undertake, within Essex County Council waste services, the collection, transportation and tipping of Roll on Roll off (RoRo) containers ensuring the load is secure and safe at all times.
- To undertake a variety of tasks to achieve the above which may involve driving different types of vehicles ensuring all daily/weekly tasks are completed in accordance with directions given by management/supervisors.
- Ensure the best operational relationships are maintained between the service and all contracted disposal/treatment facilities.
Accountabilities
- Drive and be responsible for any allocated vehicle, including all driver vehicle checks including completion of Tachograph or vehicle logs as required.
- To load/unload containers and maintain safety and security of load ensuring site specific rules, safe systems of work and risk assessments are adhered to at all times.
- To be responsible for the safe and the correct use of all vehicles, plant and equipment provided ensuring it is operated in accordance with the training provided and manufacturers guidelines.
- Accountable for the pre-use inspection of vehicles assigned for operation, reporting any defects prior to commencement of duties.
- Responsible for accurately completing all required operational paperwork, submission to be completed at the end of each shift and/or as required.
- Responsible for the accurate completion of all Duty of Care (waste transfer note) documentation for each consignment of waste.
- Maintain relevant HGV licence including: Drivers CPC, driver digital tachograph and periodic medical examinations as well as attend any additional training where required.
- Work closely with the site managers/supervisors within the waste service stations to ensure daily requirements are fully met.
- Responsible for following site specific rules at all waste facilities operated by Essex County Council and/or their contractors.
- To carry out any other duties commensurate with the post as required to meet the needs of the service.
The Experience You Will Bring
- Qualifications / Training: Compliant HGV Licence, Current driver CPC, Knowledge and understanding of health and safety requirements.
- Knowledge: Able to demonstrate local knowledge of the area, Knowledge of Transport Legislation in relation to driving heavy good vehicles.
- Experience: Experience of driving a variety of vehicles e.g. HGV, transit van, tractor.
- Skills: Able to communicate effectively, Able to demonstrate professional and customer-focussed service at all times, Ability to complete paperwork in an accurate and timely manner.
- Character: Ability to work effectively unsupervised, on own initiative, Ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
- Availability / Locality / Mobility: Clean HGV driving licence, Flexibility - the post will require some flexibility in the working arrangements and the postholder will need to be available for this.
Why Essex?
As one of the largest and most dynamic UK local authorities, Essex offers a stimulating public service environment. Covering over 1,420 square miles and serving 1.8 million residents, we’re committed to transformational change and delivering better quality at lower cost. Recognised in the top three of the latest IMPOWER index for productivity, we ensure everyone matters in Everyone's Essex. With flexible working options and a focus on innovation, whether you are looking to develop your career or contribute to the local community, Essex is the ideal place for you.
Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the job. Please speak to our Recruiters if you require any reasonable adjustments during the process. We’re also committed to interview all veterans and care leavers, who meet the minimum requirements of the role for which they are applying.
Please note that the job role requires you to be mobile throughout an operational area. Therefore, the post holder will need to have a driving licence and access to a vehicle, or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means.
Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
HGV Class 1 Driver in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Counci
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible working arrangements, a commitment to diversity, and a focus on innovation, employees can thrive while contributing to the local community. The role of HGV Class 1 Driver not only provides competitive pay but also the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that supports essential waste services across Essex.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Class 1 Driver in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with fellow drivers, site managers, and anyone in the industry. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty! If you can, volunteer for local waste services or related events. It’s a great way to gain experience and show your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay flexible! Be open to weekend shifts or varied hours. Many companies appreciate candidates who are willing to adapt their schedules.
✨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 find all the latest opportunities there.
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Class 1 Driver in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Driving Skills:Make sure to highlight your HGV Class 1 licence and any relevant driving experience in your application. We want to see that you know your stuff when it comes to handling heavy vehicles!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep your answers straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and get straight to what makes you a great fit for the role.
Demonstrate Your Local Knowledge:Since you'll be working across Essex, mentioning your familiarity with the area can really set you apart. Show us that you know the roads and can navigate efficiently!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you quickly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Counci
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of transport legislation and health and safety requirements. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the responsibilities that come with being an HGV Class 1 driver.
✨Show Off Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous driving experience, especially with different types of vehicles. Highlight any specific instances where you've had to adapt to new situations or handle challenges on the road, as this will demonstrate your versatility and problem-solving skills.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle the operational aspects of the job. Think about scenarios involving loading/unloading containers or dealing with site managers. Practising these responses can help you feel more at ease during the interview.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the role requires some weekend shifts, be prepared to discuss your availability. Showing that you're flexible and willing to work outside of standard hours can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to the job.
