At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive Class 1 HGV vehicles, transporting waste efficiently and safely.
- Company: Panda Waste, a leader in sustainable waste management.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, overtime rates, full PPE, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with a focus on teamwork and innovation.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a positive impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: Valid UK HGV Class 1 licence and 2 years driving experience required.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 41000 £ per year.
About the Role
Panda Waste is a trusted provider of waste transportation, operating from our Leeds and Bradford depots. We specialise in efficient and sustainable waste management solutions, supporting the circular economy and environmental best practices. We’re currently seeking an experienced HGV Class 1 Driver to join our team and play a vital role in our waste transport operations.
The Role
Based at either our Leeds Cross Green depot or Bradford depot (depending on your preference), you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of Class 1 HGV vehicles, transporting waste materials to and from various locations. This role is vital to ensuring the smooth running of our waste management operations and supporting our commitment to environmental sustainability.
Working Hours:
- Day Shift: Monday to Friday, 6am–6pm, with Saturday shifts on a rotational basis
- 50 hours contracted (including 1-hour unpaid break per shift)
- Overtime paid at enhanced rates for hours worked over 45 per week
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate Class 1 HGV vehicles for the collection, transportation, and delivery of waste materials.
- Plan and follow efficient routes to maximise productivity and minimise environmental impact.
- Conduct daily vehicle safety checks and report any defects promptly.
- Maintain accurate records of collections, deliveries, and vehicle logs using digital systems.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and transport regulations, including drivers’ hours and Working Time Directive.
- Provide excellent customer service at all collection and delivery points.
Essential Requirements
- Valid UK HGV Class 1 licence with current Driver CPC.
- Digital tachograph card.
- Minimum 2 years of proven experience driving Class 1 HGV vehicles, preferably within waste management or a related sector.
- Strong knowledge of vehicle safety and maintenance requirements.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with the transport team.
What We Offer
- Pay rate: £14.90 per hour plus a weekly compliance £50 weekly bonus.
- Overtime pay (for hours worked over 45 per week):
- Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 1.3x hourly rate
- Saturdays: 1.5x hourly rate
- Bank Holidays: 2x hourly rate
The Ideal Candidate
You are a professional, HGV Class 1 driver who takes pride in vehicle presentation and delivering excellent customer service. You thrive in a role that balances independence with teamwork and are committed to supporting environmental best practices.
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.
Class 1 Waste Transport Driver - Local Routes, OT Pay in Leeds employer: Mid UK
Contact Detail:
Mid UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Class 1 Waste Transport Driver - Local Routes, OT Pay in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Panda Waste. Understand their values and how they operate. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Go through common interview questions for HGV drivers and prepare your responses. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want you to feel confident when discussing your skills and achievements.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your customer service skills! Since you'll be interacting with clients during collections and deliveries, be ready to share examples of how you've provided excellent service in the past. It’s all about making a positive impression!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a couple of thoughtful questions prepared. This shows your interest in the role and helps you determine if Panda Waste is the right fit for you. Plus, it keeps the conversation flowing!
We think you need these skills to ace Class 1 Waste Transport Driver - Local Routes, OT Pay in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience as an HGV Class 1 driver. We want to see how your skills and background align with our waste management operations, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use simple language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your qualifications without getting lost in the details.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for Panda Waste. Mention our commitment to environmental sustainability and how you can contribute to that mission. It shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mid UK
✨Know Your Vehicle Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of HGV Class 1 vehicles. Be prepared to discuss daily safety checks and maintenance routines, as this shows your commitment to vehicle safety and operational efficiency.
✨Route Planning is Key
Familiarise yourself with efficient route planning techniques. During the interview, highlight your experience in minimising environmental impact while maximising productivity. This aligns perfectly with Panda's commitment to sustainability.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since excellent customer service is crucial for this role, think of examples where you’ve gone above and beyond for clients. Be ready to discuss how you handle challenges at collection and delivery points.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
Panda values a balance between working independently and being part of a team. Share experiences that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with colleagues while managing your own responsibilities on the road.