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- Tasks: Drive and operate a specialist refuse collection HGV while ensuring high service quality.
- Company: Join Sevenoaks District Council's dedicated waste and recycling team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, paid training, and access to employee discounts.
- Other info: Engage with residents and enjoy social activities throughout the year.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable driving experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; full training will be provided.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
Sevenoaks District Council’s waste and recycling service plays a vital role in keeping the district clean and safe. We are looking for reliable, professional HGV Driver/Loaders to join our Direct Services team.
Job Responsibilities
- Safely drive and operate a specialist refuse collection HGV (rigid up to 26 tonnes with rear steer) across a wide range of environments.
- Carry out daily and ad‑hoc vehicle safety checks and report defects promptly.
- Complete all scheduled household waste and recycling collections to a high standard of service quality and presentation.
- Engage professionally with residents, respond to queries and manage challenging situations calmly and respectfully.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures, safe systems of work, road traffic requirements, environmental standards and Council policies.
- Complete statutory and operational records, including defect reports, tachograph records and route documentation.
- Make on‑the‑spot decisions to maintain safety, service quality and efficiency in a dynamic, public‑facing environment.
- Work Good Friday and eight Saturdays per year following bank holidays to support service recovery.
Qualifications
Full training will be provided.
Benefits
- 37 hour working week.
- Occasional overtime, paid at enhanced rates.
- 28 days annual leave per year (excluding bank holidays).
- Additional leave after 5 years of service.
- Paid training, including Driver CPC funded by the Council.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Free on‑site parking at the place of work.
- Access to employee benefits and discounts on shopping, travel, days out and more.
- Access to BUPA Employee Assistance Programme providing free, confidential 24/7 counselling and wellbeing support.
- Opportunities to join in with social activities throughout the year.
Equal Opportunities
Sevenoaks – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community. Sevenoaks District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
HGV Driver/Loader in Kent employer: South East Employers
Contact Detail:
South East Employers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Driver/Loader in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Sevenoaks District Council and their waste and recycling service. Understanding their values and mission will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the application process and what it’s really like to work as an HGV Driver/Loader at Sevenoaks District Council.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the practical side of things! Brush up on your driving skills and safety checks. Being able to demonstrate your competence behind the wheel and your knowledge of health and safety procedures will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Sevenoaks District Council team!
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Driver/Loader in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Driving Skills: Make sure to highlight your driving experience and any relevant qualifications in your application. We want to see that you can handle an HGV like a pro, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Be Professional and Personable: Since you'll be engaging with residents, it's important to convey your ability to communicate effectively. Share examples of how you've managed challenging situations calmly and respectfully in the past.
Attention to Detail is Key: We need someone who can complete all necessary records accurately. Mention any experience you have with paperwork or compliance, as this will show us you're detail-oriented and reliable.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and get you on board with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at South East Employers
✨Know Your Vehicle Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the specific HGV you’ll be driving. Brush up on daily safety checks and common defects to show you take vehicle maintenance seriously. This will demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to safety.
✨Prepare for Real-Life Scenarios
Think about how you would handle challenging situations, like dealing with difficult residents or unexpected road conditions. Practising these scenarios can help you respond calmly and effectively during the interview, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
✨Understand the Council's Values
Research Sevenoaks District Council’s mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding community service and environmental standards. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but you genuinely care about the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about team dynamics, training opportunities, or how the council measures success in their waste and recycling services. This shows your interest in the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.