At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive HGV Class 1 vehicles across the UK, ensuring timely and safe deliveries.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest food suppliers with a strong logistics network.
- Benefits: Earn up to £50,000+ with overtime, plus great perks like a pension and holidays.
- Other info: Immediate starts available; flexible working hours with a supportive team.
- Why this job: Enjoy stability, competitive pay, and the chance to grow in a successful company.
- Qualifications: Must have HGV Class 1 licence and at least one year of driving experience.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 37000 £ per year.
Major Recruitment is proud to be working in partnership with one of the UK's largest food suppliers to recruit experienced HGV Class 1 Drivers for their busy and expanding transport operation based in Rochester, Kent. Our client is a well-established business with a nationwide logistics network, supplying major UK food retailers and operating across more than 200 sites throughout the country. Due to continued growth and increasing demand, they are looking to add professional and reliable drivers to their transport team.
This is an excellent opportunity for drivers seeking long-term stability, regular overtime, competitive earnings and the chance to join a successful business that invests heavily in its people. Immediate starts available for the right person.
The Role:
As an HGV Class 1 Driver, you will play a key role in the movement of products and equipment across the UK, ensuring deliveries are completed safely, efficiently and on time. Duties will include:
- Driving HGV Class 1 (C+E) vehicles across the UK
- Collecting and delivering goods between operational sites, warehouses and major retailer distribution centres
- Completing vehicle checks, defect reporting and transport documentation
- Ensuring compliance with Driver Hours Regulations and company procedures
- Loading and unloading vehicles where required
- Using pump trucks and counterbalance forklifts (training provided)
- Carrying out occasional shunting duties
- Maintaining high standards of vehicle cleanliness and presentation
- Providing a professional service to customers and colleagues at all times
Drivers operate from the Rochester depot each day, collecting their allocated vehicle before commencing routes.
Routes & Travel:
- UK-wide deliveries and collections as far as Scotland
- Regular work to major supermarket distribution centres
- Mixture of local and long-distance routes
- Overnight stays required on occasion for longer journeys
- Overnight allowance paid (£25-£30 per night)
- Typically no more than one night out per week
Due to the rural nature of some collection points, applicants should be confident driving on country roads and have a minimum of one year's Class 1 experience.
Working Pattern:
40 hours but most drivers work overtime up to 50-55 hours per week on a rolling rota:
- Week 1: 5 Days On 1 Day Off
- Week 2: 5 Days On 2 Days Off
This rota provides approximately one full weekend Saturday and Sunday off every 12 weeks.
Salary & Benefits:
Pay:
- £17.90 per hour for the first 40 hours worked
- £22.37 per hour after 40 hours (Time + 25%)
- Overtime available throughout the year
- Typical earnings of £50,000+ with overtime
- Basic earnings approximately £37,000 per year
- Paid fortnightly
- All breaks paid
Additional Payments:
- Overnight allowance for nights away
- Additional £25 per day when driving the company's 30-seat bus (where required at the Kent site)
Benefits:
- Company pension scheme
- 28 days holiday - increasing with service
- Additional day's holiday for every two years of service
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Private GP service
- Eyecare vouchers
- Employee discount platform
- Free onsite parking
- Free Will Writing service
- Free English language training
- Online learning and development platform
- Company accommodation available where required
Requirements:
Essential:
- HGV Class 1 (Category C+E) Licence
- Valid Driver CPC
- Digital Tachograph Card
- Minimum 1 year's Class 1 driving experience
- Good understanding of driver hours and transport legislation
- Professional and safety-focused attitude
- Flexible approach to working hours
Desirable:
- Counterbalance Forklift experience (Training required but must be willing)
- PSV Licence - Applicants interested in obtaining a PSV Licence may be eligible for funded training.
Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to join one of the UK's largest food supply businesses, operating a substantial national transport network and supplying many of the country's leading retailers. With consistent work available year-round, excellent earning potential and genuine long-term career opportunities, this role is ideal for experienced Class 1 drivers looking for their next challenge.
To apply or find out more, please contact Major Recruitment today.
HGV Class 1 Driver in Rochester employer: Major Talent
Join a leading food supplier in Rochester, Kent, where you will benefit from competitive earnings, a supportive work culture, and ample opportunities for professional growth. With a commitment to employee well-being, the company offers a range of benefits including a pension scheme, paid breaks, and ongoing training, making it an excellent choice for HGV Class 1 Drivers seeking stability and career advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Class 1 Driver in Rochester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow drivers, join local transport groups, and connect with industry professionals on social media. You never know when a chat could lead to your next job opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with some research! Look into the companies you're interested in, especially their values and culture. Tailor your approach to show how you fit right in with their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interview, run through common questions and scenarios you might face as an HGV Class 1 Driver. This will help you feel more confident and ready to impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for reliable drivers like you to join our growing team.
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Class 1 Driver in Rochester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your HGV Class 1 experience. We want to see how your skills and background make you the perfect fit for this role, so don’t hold back!
Be Professional and Clear:Keep your application professional but friendly. Use clear language and structure your application well. This shows us that you can communicate effectively, which is super important in this job.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Mention specific duties from the role that you’ve done before, like vehicle checks or compliance with regulations. It helps us see how you fit into our team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s quick and easy, and it ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Major Talent
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of HGV Class 1 regulations and safety standards. Be ready to discuss your driving experience and any specific routes you've handled. This shows you're not just a driver, but a knowledgeable professional.
✨Dress for Success
Even though you’re applying for a driving position, first impressions matter! Wear smart-casual attire that reflects professionalism. It’ll help you feel confident and show the interviewer that you take the opportunity seriously.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about handling various driving scenarios, such as dealing with difficult weather conditions or managing tight delivery schedules. Prepare examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and reliability.
✨Show Your Flexibility
The role requires a flexible approach to working hours, so be prepared to discuss your availability for overtime and overnight stays. Highlight your willingness to adapt to the needs of the job, which is crucial for success in this position.
