At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive state-of-the-art refuse and recycling vehicles while leading a dedicated team.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking environmental services team in Hexham.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Full training provided; great career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting journey in waste collection and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Class 2 driving licence and experience with large vehicles required.
We are entering exciting times in waste collections, with separate food collections and Simpler Recycling coming shortly, where we will be collecting a wider range of recyclable materials. We want you to be part of the journey.
The job will require you to:
- Drive our large fleet of refuse and recycling collection vehicles alongside our brand-new fleet of state‑of‑the‑art food waste collection vehicles. Each vehicle comes equipped with an in‑cab tablet and you will be using the technology daily as part of your role.
- Take overall responsibility for the careful use and maintenance of the vehicle and allocated tools and equipment.
- Drive a HG Refuse Vehicle, load refuse and be responsible for a small team of professional, dedicated and friendly team of Refuse Collection staff.
- Oversee the provision of efficient and effective refuse and recycling collection services and ensure that streets, homes and businesses are kept clean, safe and tidy, whilst providing the very best levels of customer service to all members of the community that we serve.
We are looking for hard‑working, enthusiastic individuals who are keen to work as part of a dedicated team based at our Tyne Mills Depot in Hexham. This is a permanent, full‑time position over a 4‑day working week Monday to Thursday.
REQUIREMENTS OF THE JOB
- Qualified to drive our fleet. You will hold a class 2 licence and have experience of driving large heavy goods vehicles (with no historical driving convictions).
- Desirable: experience of in‑cab technology; full training will be given.
- Hard‑working, physically fit and healthy.
- Relevant knowledge of the range of tasks, operation of associated tools and equipment, and an appreciation of the service.
- Ready to assist collection crews. You must have the strength, dexterity and coordination to manoeuvre bins and operate hydraulic equipment.
- Willing to go the extra mile while on your rounds, keep plenty of enthusiasm and a big smile.
- Must cope with the regular high level of physical demand, drive confidently in urban and rural locations, and maintain general awareness to ensure safe working conditions.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. If you have a disability and would prefer to apply in a different format, please see the alternative methods below. This information will be treated as confidential and will only be used to check that you meet the essential requirements of the post. For those with speech difficulties or hearing loss: Text relay service dial 018001 01670 623930.
Why choose us?
- 26 days annual leave plus public/bank holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years of service (pro rata for part‑time employees).
- Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Flexi scheme (if applicable) – up to 2 days flexible leave available per month (pro rata for part‑time employees).
Please note this is a full‑time position.
HGV Driver - Refuse Vehicle (Hexham) employer: Northumberland Fire Group
Join our dedicated team at the Tyne Mills Depot in Hexham, where we are transforming waste collection services with innovative technology and a commitment to sustainability. As an employer, we offer a supportive work culture that values hard work and enthusiasm, alongside generous benefits such as 26 days of annual leave, a Local Government Pension Scheme, and opportunities for flexible working. We pride ourselves on fostering employee growth and providing a rewarding environment where you can make a meaningful impact in your community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Driver - Refuse Vehicle (Hexham)
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like Northumberland Fire Group.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like Northumberland Fire Group and can help us land that full-time gig.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Northumberland Fire Group.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Northumberland Fire Group will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of HGV Driver - Refuse Vehicle (Hexham) at Northumberland Fire Group. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumberland Fire Group
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Northumberland Fire Group, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Northumberland Fire Group that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
