At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive buses, provide essential transport services, and engage with customers daily.
- Company: Join First Bus, a leading provider of public transport in the UK, committed to community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free travel for family, discounts, and up to 5 weeks holiday.
- Other info: Comprehensive training provided; no prior bus driving experience needed.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team, meet diverse people, and make a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, have 6 months driving experience, and possess good communication skills.
Trainee Bus Driver – Lawrence Hill
£14.84 per hour
We're looking for new drivers to join our team in Lawrence Hill. No previous bus driving experience is required, if you have a full UK driving licence, enjoy workingwith people, and have a positive attitude, we'll provide all the training and support you need to become a fully qualified Bus Driver. This is a permanent, full-time position offering guaranteed contracted hours, planned rotas, and a stable career from day one. With opportunities to develop your skills and progress within the business, it's a great opportunity to build a rewarding long-term career with us.
What's in it for you?
You'll start on £14.84 per hour raising to £17.40 per hour once qualified after 12 months. This is a full time permanent role with guaranteed contracted hours and structured rotas planned in advance, giving you more stability and predictability around your working week. You'll work a variety of shifts across mornings, evenings, and weekends, with weekday time off built into the rota and opportunities for overtime to increase earnings where available.
The Role
As a Bus Driver, you'll be at the heart of your local community, operating services across Bristol and the surrounding areas. Every day, you'll help people get to work, education, appointments, shopping, and days out, making a real difference by keeping the city connected. This is a customer-facing role where safety, professionalism, and excellent customer service are at the core of everything you do. You'll take pride in delivering a safe, reliable, and comfortable journey, creating a positive experience for every passenger who steps on board.
You’ll work a variety of shifts on a planned rota, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, with your schedule provided in advance so you can plan ahead.
What We're Looking For
- Full UK driving licence held for at least 6 months
- Maximum of 6 penalty points
- Minimum age of 18
- Right to work in the UK
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Flexible approach to shift work
No PCV licence is required, full training is provided.
Rewards
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
- We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
- Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
- Free onsite parking + cycle to work scheme
- Up to 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted FirstGroup shares
- Enhanced maternity / paternity pay
Background checks will form part of the recruitment process.
Trainee Bus Driver in Bristol employer: First Group
First Group in Doncaster is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development through fully paid training for aspiring bus drivers. With benefits like free bus travel for family and discounted rail travel, employees enjoy a rewarding work-life balance while contributing to the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Bus Driver in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and bus routes in Bristol. This will not only help you during your training but also show your commitment and enthusiasm for the role when you speak to us.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your customer service skills in any interactions you have with us. Whether it's through a phone call or at an event, showing that you can communicate effectively and positively with people is key.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shift patterns. Highlighting your willingness to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends will make you stand out as a candidate who understands the demands of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for driving and helping others. Sharing personal stories about how you've assisted friends or family with transport needs can illustrate your dedication to being a reliable bus driver.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Bus Driver in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand what being a Trainee Bus Driver entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the importance of the role in the community.
Tailor Your CV:Highlight any relevant experience, especially in customer service or driving roles. Emphasise your communication skills and ability to work flexible hours, as these are key for this position.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for driving and helping the community. Mention why you want to join this specific company and how your values align with theirs.
Prepare for Background Checks:Be ready for background checks as part of the recruitment process. Ensure that all your information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any issues during this stage.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Group
✨Show Your People Skills
As a bus driver, you'll be interacting with a variety of passengers daily. Highlight your communication and customer service skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've successfully dealt with customers or resolved conflicts in the past.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
The role requires working various shifts, including early mornings and weekends. Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different schedules. This shows that you're ready to meet the demands of the job.
✨Emphasise Safety and Patience
Safety is paramount in driving. Talk about your approach to safe driving and how you maintain patience on the road, especially in challenging situations. This will reassure the interviewers that you prioritise safety for yourself and your passengers.
✨Research the Company Culture
Understanding the company's values and commitment to inclusivity can set you apart. Familiarise yourself with First Bus's initiatives and be ready to discuss how you align with their mission to serve diverse communities.
