Class 1 HGV Driver - Waste Transport | Overtime & Growth in Leeds

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.

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.
• Full PPE and uniform provided.
• Opportunities for ongoing training and career progression.
• Work within a modern, well-maintained fleet equipped with the latest safety features.

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.