At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive HGV Class 2 vehicles, collect and transport hazardous waste safely.
- Company: Join Panda Waste, a leader in sustainable waste management.
- Benefits: Earn £14.50/hour, plus bonuses and allowances for early starts.
- Other info: Enjoy full-time stability with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while driving and supporting sustainability.
- Qualifications: Valid HGV Class 2 licence and commitment to safety required.
The predicted salary is between 30225 - 40275 £ per year.
About the Role
At Panda Waste, we keep the country moving by delivering reliable waste and recycling services that support local communities and businesses. We are looking for an experienced HGV Class 2 Driver to join our Dewsbury team, operating 18t – 26t curtain-sider vehicles across the local area. This is a specialised, hands-on role for a driver who takes pride in safe driving, compliance with hazardous goods regulations, and maintaining their vehicle to a high standard.
What you’ll be doing:
- Operating HGV Class 2 (18t - 26t) curtain-sider vehicles safely and efficiently.
- Collecting and transporting various waste materials, including aerosols, oily rags, and paint.
- Completing daily vehicle checks and reporting any defects promptly.
- Using handheld or tablet-based systems to record job data and vehicle logs.
- Working safely at all times, adhering to site, transport, and road safety regulations.
- Providing a professional and helpful service to customers on-site.
- Supporting the wider transport and depot team as required.
What we’re looking for:
- Valid HGV Class 2 (Category C) licence.
- Valid Driver CPC and digital tachograph card.
- ADR and Moffett qualifications are preferred (though not essential).
- Experience with hazardous waste or curtain-sider vehicles is an advantage.
- A reliable, professional approach with a commitment to high safety standards.
- Good communication skills and a practical, customer-focused attitude.
- Flexibility to manage early starts (4:30 am).
What you’ll get:
- Hourly Rate: £14.50 per hour with a 45-hour guaranteed week.
- Overtime: Paid at x1.5 for all hours worked over 45.
- Early Start Bonus: £10 bonus for any shift commencing before 4:30 am.
- Allowances: £3 daily meal allowance and £26.50 night allowance (where applicable).
- Breaks: 30-minute break (deducted daily).
- Benefits: Full PPE and uniform provided, plus a company pension and Death in Service benefit (x4 annual salary after 6 months).
- Stability: Stable, full-time work with an established business.
About Us
We are Panda. We value waste. We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste. Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.
At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together. We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.
We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems; we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make. And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.
Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact. Take the first step and join us on the journey. Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.
Hazardous Waste HGV Class 2 Driver – Early Start Bonus employer: Mid UK Recycling Ltd
At Panda Waste, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values safety, teamwork, and personal growth. Our Dewsbury team benefits from competitive pay, including an early start bonus, and a range of allowances, alongside full PPE and uniform provision. We are committed to the wellbeing of our employees, providing stability in a full-time role within a leading resource recovery business that encourages innovation and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hazardous Waste HGV Class 2 Driver – Early Start Bonus
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Panda Waste. Understand their values and mission, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to driving safety and hazardous waste management. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills and commitment to safety standards.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During the interview, be sure to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, especially when discussing how you handle customer interactions on-site. A friendly, professional attitude goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on the Panda Waste site. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of being noticed by the hiring team. Plus, it’s super easy!
We think you need these skills to ace Hazardous Waste HGV Class 2 Driver – Early Start Bonus
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience with HGV Class 2 driving and any work you've done with hazardous waste. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon that might confuse us. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to our job description. Mention specific skills or experiences that relate directly to the responsibilities we’ve outlined. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the necessary updates. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mid UK Recycling Ltd
✨Know Your Vehicle Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the specifics of HGV Class 2 vehicles, especially curtain-siders. Brush up on daily vehicle checks and be ready to discuss how you maintain your vehicle to a high standard. This shows you take pride in your work and understand the importance of safety.
✨Understand Hazardous Waste Regulations
Since this role involves transporting hazardous materials, it’s crucial to know the relevant regulations. Familiarise yourself with ADR guidelines and be prepared to discuss your experience with hazardous waste. This will demonstrate your commitment to compliance and safety.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Panda values a professional and helpful service to customers. Think of examples where you’ve provided excellent customer service, especially in challenging situations. This will highlight your practical, customer-focused attitude, which is key for this role.
✨Be Ready for Early Starts
With shifts starting as early as 4:30 am, show that you’re flexible and prepared for early mornings. Mention any previous experience with early starts or how you manage your schedule to ensure punctuality. This will reassure them that you’re reliable and ready to hit the ground running.