Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and maintain ambulance vehicles to ensure frontline crews are ready for emergencies.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the NHS, committed to patient care and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive and friendly environment.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a passion for helping others and teamwork.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with additional pay for unsocial hours and a chance to grow your career.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
There has never been a better time to join the Trust's Fleet and Equipment team as a Vehicle Preparation Operative (VPO). Our Ambulance Vehicle Preparation (AVP) team play a vital role in ensuring our front line crews are ready and able to respond to emergency situations by preparing our vehicle fleet and equipment to high standards 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The role of the VPO is also a gateway to the organisation with opportunities to develop your career with us either within the Fleet and Equipment team or the wider Trust in both patient-facing and a variety of support roles. The working pattern is made up of 12 hour shifts with start times of either 0630 or 1830 on rotation. Unsocial hours payments will be applicable in addition to the basic salary for night and weekend working.
The role is a key operational support function which ensures patient safety whilst supporting Operations in meeting its targets. Main duties include:
- Detailed cleaning and infection prevention & control activities
- Checking and inspecting medical devices
- Restocking consumables
- Refuelling and driving vehicles across various locations
- Moving vehicles between the workshop and ambulance stations as needed
- Acting as a point of contact within the Ambulance Vehicle Preparation team for initial enquiries from staff from other departments, acting with professionalism at all times
- Being pro-active in identifying and providing solutions to issues encountered within the role and assisting the department with continuously monitoring and improving its service level standard
- Mentoring and supporting less experienced Vehicle Preparation Operatives
We remain committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible care for all our patients, which is reflected in our new five-year strategy which has continually improving patient care at its very core. The role is based in Staverton Ambulance Station close to the airport. Our Ambulance Preparation (AVP) Team are a friendly and helpful team of operatives who are proud to support the front line team members to support the community.
If you embody our values of one team, compassionate and innovative and are looking to make a real difference to people's lives, then we would love to hear from you. Working for us is an experience like no other. We provide emergency and urgent care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, operating across the largest ambulance region in England and responding to an average of 2,650 incidents every day.
Benefits:
- Competitive NHS salary
- A standard working week of 37.5 hours
- Holiday entitlements of 27 days per year, plus general and public holidays, rising to 29 days after 5 years and 33 days after 10 years
- Pay enhancements for out of hours, shift and overtime working
- Generous Pension Scheme
- Career and salary progression
- Car leasing scheme
- Free parking across Trust sites
- Staff networks
- Wide range of discounts from various organisations across the UK
Vehicle Preparation Operative (Gloucestershire) employer: South Western Ambulance Service
Contact Detail:
South Western Ambulance Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vehicle Preparation Operative (Gloucestershire)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the Fleet and Equipment team. Understanding their values and how they operate will help you connect during the conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for patient care! When discussing your experience, highlight any relevant skills or situations where you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. This role is all about supporting the community, so let that shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you’ve identified issues and come up with solutions. The VPO role requires proactivity, so showing you can think on your feet will impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the team dynamics or future opportunities within the Trust. It shows you’re genuinely interested and eager to be part of the team. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Vehicle Preparation Operative (Gloucestershire)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for the role! Mention why you want to be a Vehicle Preparation Operative and how you can contribute to our mission of providing top-notch care.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the job description. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the duties of the VPO role, like cleaning, inspection, or teamwork.
Be Professional: Remember, professionalism is key! Use clear language, check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and keep your tone respectful. We want to see that you take this opportunity seriously.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our team there.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Western Ambulance Service
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Vehicle Preparation Operative. Familiarise yourself with tasks like cleaning, inspecting medical devices, and restocking consumables. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role is all about teamwork, be ready to discuss your experiences working in a team environment. Highlight any instances where you've supported colleagues or contributed to a positive team dynamic. This will demonstrate that you embody the values of being one team and compassionate.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you would handle specific situations, such as dealing with an emergency or resolving a conflict. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer. Inquire about the team culture, opportunities for career progression, or how they measure success in the role. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you determine if the Trust is the right fit for you.
