At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive and load refuse collection vehicles, collecting waste across West Suffolk.
- Company: Join a top-rated council committed to climate action and community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, pension scheme, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career growth and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting changes in waste management and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Must hold LGV Class C licence and have experience in driving and waste collection.
The predicted salary is between 32967 - 34117 £ per year.
We are about to see the biggest changes to waste and recycling which will impact our 80,000 households in West Suffolk and also all of our businesses. Under the government’s Better Recycling policy, new collections will be introduced to include weekly food waste; dry recycling and changes to separating commercial waste. After a successful first round of recruitment, we are now looking to recruit more Bin Collectors and Drivers. It’s an exciting time to join us!
Your main duties will include:
- Predominantly driving and loading refuse collection vehicles, either working alone or with other crews collecting all types of waste from the West Suffolk area.
Working hours are mainly early starts (6am to 7am) Monday to Friday with some potential for Saturday working. We also operate a group task approach to completing daily rounds and expect teams to work together in order to deliver services.
What you will need:
- You will hold a minimum of a LGV Class C licence, a driver digital tachograph card and an up-to-date Driver CPC card (DCPD).
- You will be an experienced LGV Class 2 driver with a demonstrable driving history; experience in the waste collection industry would be an advantage.
- You will need to be physically fit and be able to load refuse bins each day.
- You will need to be prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions; you may occasionally be required to work at our other locations to carry out any other work as appropriate to the grade of the post.
- You will be flexible with a strong customer focus and be able to demonstrate a desire to deliver high standards of service.
- You will have some basic computer literacy/knowledge and be able to operate ‘in cab’ and handheld technology and other in-house systems as appropriate.
Why work for us?
- Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per annum rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service plus bank holidays.
- A generous pension scheme (LGPS) including life assurance (a payment of three times your annual salary).
- Access to a unique employee benefits package which includes discounts and cashback on supermarkets, high street shops, holidays, mobile phones, electrical goods, savings and loan schemes and many other products and services.
- Salary sacrifice benefits including Cycle to Work scheme, and SmartTech (buy the latest tech products interest free and spread the cost over your salary).
- Rail and bus staff discounts.
- A range of Health and Wellbeing initiatives including an employee assistance programme and discounted membership at Abbeycroft Leisure centres.
- A culture of learning inspiring staff to focus on continuous learning.
West Suffolk Council has been rated in the top 10 district councils for climate action (Climate Scorecards 2023) and as a member of UK100 has demonstrated its commitment to a rapid transition to Net Zero with Clean Air in our communities. The council has declared a climate and biodiversity emergency and is committed to working towards net zero emissions by 2039.
Closing date: Tuesday 30 June 2026. Interview date: To be confirmed. Previous applicants need not apply.
Driver employer: West Suffolk
Join West Suffolk Council as a Driver and be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to transforming waste and recycling services for our community. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer an excellent benefits package, including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for continuous learning and development. Our collaborative work culture and focus on sustainability make this an exciting time to contribute to meaningful change in the West Suffolk area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Driver
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research West Suffolk Council and their recent initiatives, especially around waste and recycling. This will help you tailor your conversation 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 employees on LinkedIn or attend local events related to waste management. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As a driver, you might face driving tests or practical evaluations. Brush up on your driving skills and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of safety protocols and vehicle operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Show off your customer service skills! Since you'll be interacting with the public, think of examples where you've gone above and beyond for customers. Highlighting this during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Driver
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Driving Skills:Make sure to highlight your LGV Class C licence and any relevant driving experience in your application. We want to see that you’ve got a solid driving history, especially in the waste collection industry if possible!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and get straight to the point about your qualifications and why you’re a great fit for the Driver role with us.
Demonstrate Team Spirit:Since we work in teams to deliver our services, mention any past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with others. Show us that you can work well with a crew to get the job done!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity in West Suffolk.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Suffolk
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the job description and the specific requirements for the Driver role. Brush up on your LGV Class C licence details, your driving history, and any experience you have in the waste collection industry. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you’re the right fit.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with other crews, be prepared to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples where you’ve successfully collaborated with others, especially in challenging situations. Highlighting your ability to work well in a group task approach will impress the interviewers.
✨Get Ready for the Outdoors
The job requires working outdoors in all weather conditions, so be ready to talk about your adaptability and physical fitness. Share any experiences that demonstrate your resilience and willingness to tackle tough conditions, as this will show you’re committed to delivering high standards of service.
✨Tech Savvy is Key
Familiarise yourself with basic computer literacy and any handheld technology you might encounter in the role. Be ready to discuss how you’ve used technology in previous jobs, as this will show you can handle the in-cab systems and other tech required for the position.
