At a Glance
- Tasks: Train HGV drivers and manage vehicle defect reporting for a safe fleet.
- Company: Join Pallet Plus, part of Expect Distribution, known for its friendly culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, health care plan, gym access, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with great career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by training drivers and ensuring fleet safety.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid HGV C+E licence and experience in driver training.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 39000 £ per year.
About Us
Founded in 2005, Pallet Plus became part of the Expect Distribution Group in 2023. We provide reliable palletised distribution as part of a wider, customer-focused logistics network. Known for our friendly, down‑to‑earth culture, we offer a supportive environment where people can grow, develop and build long‑term careers. Expect Distribution is an award‑winning logistics provider with over 36 years of experience delivering flexible, reliable warehousing, transport and distribution solutions across the UK. With people at the heart of everything we do, we foster a safe, inclusive and collaborative workplace where colleagues are supported to succeed and grow.
Position Overview
We are hiring a HGV Driver Trainer & Defect Coordinator (split role) at our Pallet Plus site, to support the safe, compliant and efficient operation of the fleet by delivering high‑quality HGV driver training and overseeing vehicle defect reporting, monitoring and resolution processes. This dual‑role position ensures drivers meet required competency standards while maintaining fleet roadworthiness and compliance with legal and company policies.
Shift Pattern: Monday‑Friday. This role requires flexibility, with some Saturday and night shifts as needed to accommodate training and recruitment demands.
Salary: Up to £39,000
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: CO7 7JW (Colchester)
Key Responsibilities
- Training & Development
- Deliver practical and classroom‑based instruction for new and existing HGV drivers.
- Carry out on‑road assessments, induction training, refresher sessions and remedial coaching.
- Support the development of safe driving behaviours and fuel‑efficient driving techniques.
- Maintain detailed training records and ensure compliance with legislation.
- Assist with the development of new training materials, toolbox talks and safety training.
- Promote a safety‑first culture across operations.
- Provide constructive feedback to drivers to support safe driving performance.
- Support internal and external audits.
- Assist with incident investigations and undertake development actions.
- Defect Management
- Assist with the daily defect reporting process ensuring compliance.
- Support the review of reported vehicle defects to help ensure timely and appropriate action is taken.
- Liaise with maintenance teams, workshops and external contractors to help coordinate repairs as necessary.
- Support with monitoring outstanding defects and ensuring vehicles remain compliant.
- Carry out minor vehicle defect repairs where appropriate and within competence (e.g., bulbs, basic fixes).
Role Requirements
- Full valid HGV C+E licence, digi card and DCPC – no endorsements.
- Strong understanding of transport legislation, including drivers’ hours and DVSA regulations.
- Experience delivering driver training, coaching or mentoring.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of telematics systems and fuel‑efficient driving methods.
- Good understanding of vehicle defect reporting systems and DVSA compliance standards.
- Driver CPC Instructor or willingness to complete.
- Recognised Driver Trainer qualification (RTITB, NRI or equivalent).
- FLT Assessor or driver training qualification.
- IOSH Managing Safely (or equivalent).
What We Offer
- Workplace Pension
- Health Care Cash Plan
- Free On‑Site Gym
- Life Insurance
- Holiday Buy/Sell Scheme
- Annual Volunteer Day
- Funded Learning and Development Opportunities
- Free Parking
HGV Driver Trainer & Defect Coordinator (split role) in Colchester employer: Expect Distribution Limited
At Pallet Plus, part of the Expect Distribution Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values our people and their development. Our friendly and inclusive culture fosters growth through comprehensive training opportunities, a supportive work environment, and a commitment to safety and compliance. Located in Colchester, we offer competitive benefits including a health care cash plan, free gym access, and a holiday buy/sell scheme, making it a rewarding place to build a long-term career.
Contact Details:
Expect Distribution Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Driver Trainer & Defect Coordinator (split role) in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the logistics industry, especially those who might know about HGV roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of transport legislation and DVSA regulations. We want you to show off your expertise, so think of examples from your experience that highlight your skills in driver training and defect management.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your communication skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively trained drivers or resolved issues in the past. This will help us see how you fit into our friendly, down-to-earth culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Pallet Plus and contributing to our supportive environment.
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Driver Trainer & Defect Coordinator (split role) in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Training:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for training and developing HGV drivers. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to safe driving and effective coaching.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate straightforward communication! Make sure your application is easy to read and gets straight to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to highlight your qualifications and experience related to the role.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the HGV Driver Trainer & Defect Coordinator role. We want to see how you fit into our friendly culture.
Apply Through Our Website:Make it easy for us to find your application by applying directly through our website. This way, we can ensure your details are processed quickly and efficiently, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Expect Distribution Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of transport legislation and DVSA regulations. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just a qualified driver but also someone who understands the bigger picture in logistics.
✨Showcase Your Training Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in delivering driver training and coaching. Have specific examples ready that highlight how you've helped drivers improve their skills or resolve issues, as this is key for the role.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Since this role involves both training and defect management, think of practical scenarios you might face. Be prepared to discuss how you'd handle a situation where a driver reports a defect or needs immediate coaching.
✨Emphasise Safety First
Given the emphasis on promoting a safety-first culture, be ready to share your thoughts on how to instil safe driving behaviours. Discuss any initiatives you've been part of that focused on safety and compliance.
