At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare ambulances and equipment to ensure frontline crews are ready for emergencies.
- Company: Join the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in emergency care.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days holiday, career progression, and pay enhancements for unsocial hours.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, with opportunities for professional development and discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a vital role.
- Qualifications: Full driving licence required; C1 category preferred or willing to obtain.
The predicted salary is between 29970 - 36483 £ per year.
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust is looking for a Vehicle Preparation Operative (VPO) to join the Fleet and Equipment team. The VPO plays a vital role in ensuring front line crews are ready to respond to emergency situations by preparing the vehicle fleet and equipment to high standards.
The role of the VPO includes:
- Processing ambulances in a prescribed and controlled way to ensure readiness for patient treatment.
- Performing detailed cleaning and infection prevention & control activities.
- Checking and inspecting medical devices.
- Restocking consumables.
- Refuelling and driving vehicles across various locations.
We are seeking committed individuals to work a variety of shifts across a 24-hour, 7-day period, including days, nights, weekends, and bank holidays. Unsocial hours payments will be applicable for night and weekend working. A current full driving licence is required, with C1 category preferred or willingness to complete within the probation period.
Working for us provides an experience like no other. We operate across the largest ambulance region in England, responding to an average of 2,650 incidents every day. We are committed to providing the best possible care for all our patients, reflected in our new five-year strategy focused on continually improving patient care.
In return, we will equip you with the skills, resources, and development needed to thrive in your role, with opportunities for career progression and continuous professional development.
Additional benefits include:
- 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.
- Career and salary progression.
- Car leasing scheme.
- Free parking across Trust sites.
- Cycle-to-work and other salary sacrifice schemes.
- Access to a wide range of discounts from various organisations across the UK.
Qualifications required include:
- General all-round education including numeracy and literacy.
- Full driving licence with a maximum of 6 penalty points.
- Must have category C1 on driving licence, or obtain (training can be provided in-house).
- 3 GCSEs or equivalent.
- European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL).
Experience required includes:
- Previous experience of driving various types of vehicles.
- Working in a trustworthy position.
- Experience in similar roles which may include stock checking and/or infection control/cleaning.
- Experience in a customer care environment.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, and a Disclosure and Barring Service check will be necessary to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Vehicle Preparation Operative (Derriford) in Plymouth employer: SWAST
Joining South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust as a Vehicle Preparation Operative offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital emergency services while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With comprehensive training, career progression opportunities, and generous benefits including enhanced pay for unsocial hours, 27 days of annual leave, and access to various discounts, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to making a real difference in people's lives across a beautiful and diverse region.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vehicle Preparation Operative (Derriford) in Plymouth
✨Get Some Hands-On Experience
If you're looking to land that full-time gig in emergency medical services, don't underestimate the power of hands-on experience! Volunteering with local ambulance services or first aid organisations can give you a great insight into the field and show potential employers you’re dedicated.
✨Connect with EMS Communities
Join local EMS associations or online groups where professionals chat about job opportunities and trends. These communities are goldmines for networking, and you might just overhear about openings at places like SWAST that aren't even advertised yet!
✨Showcase Your Skills Through Certifications
Make sure you’re up to date with your certifications—CPR, first aid, and any relevant EMS training. Having these on your CV or mentioned in interviews can really set you apart from the crowd when applying for that full-time role.
✨Leverage Local Job Fairs
Don’t forget about job fairs, especially those focused on healthcare and emergency services. These events are perfect for meeting representatives from companies like SWAST face-to-face and making a lasting impression. Plus, they often have a ton of insider info about the hiring process!
We think you need these skills to ace Vehicle Preparation Operative (Derriford) in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Certifications:In the emergency medical services world, certifications like EMT or Paramedic are crucial. Make sure to prominently display any relevant qualifications on your CV to show you’re qualified and ready to jump in.
Showcase Your Experience in High-Pressure Situations:This isn’t just about ticking boxes; we want to see how you’ve handled emergencies. Share specific examples from your past roles, focusing on your ability to stay calm and effective under pressure—this will really make your CV stand out!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for EMS. Share a brief story about why you got into this field and what drives you. This personal touch helps us connect with you beyond just your qualifications.
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills:Being part of an EMS team means communication is key. Highlight your experiences working in teams, especially in stressful environments, and how you effectively communicate with both your team and patients. This will show us you can thrive in our fast-paced world.
How to prepare for a job interview at SWAST
✨Brush Up on Your Medical Knowledge
As we're stepping into the emergency medical services world, it's crucial to have a solid grasp on medical protocols and procedures. Expect to face scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills in high-pressure situations, so reviewing your medical textbooks or guidelines might just give you the edge!
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
In EMS, teamwork and communication can literally save lives. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated in past settings or during training exercises. They might throw in questions about managing stressful interactions with patients or colleagues, so highlighting your soft skills could really set you apart.
✨Familiarise Yourself With Local Protocols
Since you'll be serving the community, knowing the specific EMS protocols and guidelines of SWAST is key. Research their operations and any recent changes they might have implemented. Demonstrating that you're well-informed about local practices shows your commitment and readiness to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Don't be surprised if your full-time interview includes a hands-on assessment. Practising skills like CPR, patient assessment, and using EMS technology will show you're ready for the rigours of the job. So gather your training materials and maybe even practice with a mate to simulate the scenario-based tests you might encounter.
