At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive safely while transporting important items like medical records and lab specimens.
- Company: Join QE Facilities, a key player in NHS support services in the North East of England.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, training opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Overnight stays may be required for longer journeys; training provided.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital service that supports healthcare, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Qualifications: Must have a full UK driving licence and basic literacy skills; knowledge of local routes is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Job overview
To provide an effective and efficient transport service which delivers and collects items such as laboratory specimens, post, medical records, lab stores, sterile supplies, transportation vehicles. In aemphatic and reassuring, timely manner to defined standards and maintaining journey records.
Main duties of the job
To undertake driving duties to the required standard subject to appropriate training, driving vehicles carefully with every consideration being given to the passenger, any equipment, the vehicle itself, other road users and to comply with Road Traffic Legislation.
It is of primary importance that the speed limit is adhered to in all cases, and that driving is safe and the patient is comfortable.
The post holder is required to undertake daily vehicle checks to ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy; these checks shall include for example: oil, water, fuel, tyre pressure and tread condition, lights, warning devices etc.
Complete a daily VDI report for the vehicle or ensuring that where appropriate your crew member has done so before commencing a shift.
Report defects and deficiencies of the vehicle and equipment and replace all items of vehicle inventory used in accordance with Policies and Procedures.
To maintain the vehicle and equipment in accordance with the organisation's infection control policy.
Remove and replace soiled linen and equipment in order to maintain sanitary conditions.
Ensure a vehicle accident pack is kept on board the vehicle at all times and report any vehicle damage in accordance with company policy and procedures.
Responsible for vehicle upkeep, cleanliness.
Working for our organisation
QE Facilities (QEF) is a wholly owned subsidiary company of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust (GHNT), based in the North East of England.
QE Facilities (QEF) is a wholly owned subsidiary company of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust (GHNT), based in the North East of England.
We provide a range of non- clinical services to GHNT and other NHS organisations. Our services include: estates, facilities services, procurement, medical engineering and devices, endoscopy decontamination and sterile services, transport, out-patient pharmacy, and prevention & management of violence & aggression training (PMVA).
In addition we provide consultancy services, advising clients on all aspects of establishing a subsidiary company within an NHS body to the provision of VAT compliance advice.
QE Facilities work to their own Terms and Conditions and these are not the same as Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust Terms and Conditions. This is not an Agenda for Change Pay Rate.
We do not hold a sponsorship licence and are unable to offer employment under any sponsorship arrangement.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
- To undertake driving duties to the required standard subject to appropriate training, driving vehicles carefully with every consideration being given to the passenger, any equipment, the vehicle itself, other road users and to comply with Road Traffic Legislation.
- It is of primary importance that the speed limit is adhered to in all cases, and that driving is safe, and all staff members who use this service are comfortable. All equipment/ specimens are transported in a safe and careful manner.
- The post holder will be expected to plan their journeys, considering the routes they should take, to ensure an efficient and effective service.
- The post holder may be required to accommodate longer distance driving as part of contracts, with overnight stays in Hotels/Bed and breakfast ect, to be in line with driving regulations.
- The post holder will be required to meet deadlines for assisted travel for example ferrys.
- The post holder is required to undertake daily vehicle checks to ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy; these checks shall include for example: oil, water, fuel, tyre pressure and tread condition, lights, warning devices etc.
- Complete a daily VDI report for the vehicle or ensuring that where appropriate your crew member has done so before commencing a shift.
- Report defects and deficiencies of the vehicle and equipment and replace all items of vehicle inventory usedin accordance with Policies and Procedures.
- To maintain the vehicle and equipment in accordance with the organisation's infection control policy
- Remove and replace soiled items and equipment in order to maintain sanitary conditions.
- Ensure a vehicle accident pack is kept on board the vehicle at all times and report any vehicle damage in accordance with company policy and procedures.
- Responsible for vehicle upkeep, cleanliness, and maintenance.
- Ensure all safety checks are carried out.
- To operate any communication system supplied / fitted/ operated by the Company in accordance with its Policies and Procedures.
- To participate in the QEF driver rota covering of shifts and duties as required / directed.
- To undertake all training as required by the Company, to include mandatory training.
- To wear Personal Protective Equipment (Uniform etc.) as supplied by the Company. This equipment should be kept clean and tidy and worn to the required standard in accordance with the Company’s Policies and Procedures
Person specification
Experience
- Experience of driving commercial vehicles
Knowledge
- Strong communication skills, interpersonal skills and ability to express empathy
- Route planning skills and knowledge of local area.
- Ability to respond to traffic problems, re-routing as required avoiding delays in transportation of patients and/or specimens.
- Able to prioritise urgent schedules.
- Knowledge of health & safety regulations and expectations
- Knowledge/awareness of basic car maintenance
Driving Licence
- Full UK Driving Licence
- First Aid
- Basic Vehicle Maintenance
Applicants who have not been contacted within 4 weeks of the closing date are to assume that their application has been unsuccessful.
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust is a smoke free organisation in line with Smoke Free Gateshead
Employer certification / accreditation badges
The postholder will have access to vulnerable people in the course of their normal duties and as such this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Transport Driver in Washington employer: QE Facilities
At QE Facilities, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of our staff and the communities we serve. Our Patient Transport Drivers benefit from comprehensive training, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the NHS, all while working in a collaborative environment in Gateshead.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Driver in Washington
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local area and key routes. Knowing the best paths to take can help you plan your journeys efficiently, which is crucial for a Transport Driver role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of health and safety regulations. Understanding these will not only help you in your day-to-day duties but also show that you're serious about maintaining a safe environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your vehicle maintenance skills. Being able to perform basic checks and report any issues will demonstrate your commitment to keeping the vehicle in top condition.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential longer-distance driving by researching overnight accommodation options. This shows that you're proactive and ready to meet the demands of the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Driver in Washington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant driving experience, route planning skills, and knowledge of health and safety regulations. Emphasise any previous roles that required careful handling of equipment or specimens.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your understanding of the importance of safe driving and patient comfort. Mention your commitment to adhering to road traffic legislation and your ability to plan efficient routes.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Clearly list your full UK driving licence and any additional qualifications such as basic vehicle maintenance or first aid. If you have manual handling skills, be sure to include those as well.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and work under pressure. Mention any experiences where you had to prioritise urgent schedules or respond to unexpected traffic problems.
How to prepare for a job interview at QE Facilities
✨Know Your Routes
Familiarise yourself with the local area and potential routes you might take. Being able to discuss your route planning skills and how you would handle traffic issues can really impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Highlight your understanding of road safety regulations and the importance of adhering to speed limits. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure the comfort and safety of passengers and equipment during transport.
✨Showcase Vehicle Maintenance Knowledge
Be ready to talk about daily vehicle checks and basic maintenance. Mention any experience you have with reporting defects and ensuring vehicles are roadworthy, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since you'll be operating communication systems, it's important to convey your ability to follow procedures and communicate effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked within a team or reported issues in previous roles.
