Class 1 + 2 HGV Driver
Location: Shireoaks
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £14.52 - £22.09
Hours of work: 40+ hours per week, varied start times including weekend work
We are seeking skilled HGV Drivers to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for transporting goods, passengers, or materials from one location to another safely and efficiently. The role involves long-distance or regional driving, ensuring timely deliveries, performing routine vehicle checks, and maintaining compliance with transport regulations.
About us:
Thirty years ago, RDS began providing specialist delivery services, and we’re proud to say that many of the clients who trusted us then are still with us today.
RDS is a recognised industry leader in temperature-controlled courier services. Our reputation is built on a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional chilled and frozen storage and distribution solutions. With an extensive delivery network covering the UK, Europe, and beyond, we ensure your goods reach their destination safely and on time.
Operating a fleet of over 50 dedicated temperature-controlled vans and HGVs, we have a proven track record of meeting even the tightest deadlines. From small start-ups to multinational corporations, we deliver the same high standard of service, no matter the size of the consignment. At RDS, we don’t just deliver goods, we build lasting partnerships. We see ourselves as an extension of your business, and we take pride in the trusted relationships we've developed with our clients over the years.
At RDS Transport, our culture is built on trust, professionalism, and a shared commitment to delivering excellence — every time. For over 30 years, we have operated with integrity and purpose, serving some of the UK’s most recognised brands with reliable, time-critical logistics services. Working at RDS Transport means becoming part of a company that values loyalty, encourages professional growth, and takes pride in doing the job right — first time, every time.
Responsibilities:
· Operate company or assigned vehicle in a safe and responsible manner.
· Pick up and deliver passengers, goods, or materials as scheduled.
· Perform basic vehicle inspections before and after trips (tires, oil, lights, etc.).
· Maintain accurate logs of deliveries, mileage, fuel, and hours.
· Follow assigned routes and schedules, using GPS or route maps when necessary.
· Adhere to all traffic laws and safety regulations.
· Report any vehicle issues or incidents to the supervisor or fleet manager.
· Provide excellent customer service when interacting with clients or passengers.
· Operate HGVs to deliver goods to distribution centres, warehouses, or customers.
· Conduct daily vehicle inspections (tyres, brakes, lights, fluid levels).
· Ensure goods are properly loaded, secured, and unloaded safely.
· Complete all required paperwork, including delivery notes, logs, and tachograph records.
· Comply with all driving laws, working time regulations, and company policies.
· Report any vehicle faults, accidents, or delays to the transport office.
· Assist with loading/unloading when necessary (may involve using tail lifts or pump trucks).
Experience, Skills and Competencies:
· Previous HGV driving experience (Class 1 or 2) — often 1–2 years preferred.
· Familiarity with using tachograph systems and understanding driver hours regulations.
· Experience handling delivery paperwork, manifests, and PODs (Proof of Delivery).
· Working knowledge of UK or EU road networks (depending on job location).
· Excellent vehicle handling and control, even in adverse weather or traffic conditions.
· Accurate logbook and tachograph record-keeping.
· Safe loading/unloading practices and securing cargo.
· Strong ability to meet tight delivery windows.
· Ability to plan rest breaks and driving hours in line with legal limits.
· Consistently punctual, dependable, and trustworthy.
· Works confidently without direct supervision on the road
· Handles road closures, delays, or breakdowns calmly and efficiently.
· Professional and courteous when dealing with clients or customers
Desirable Qualifications:
· Valid HGV Class 1 (C+E) or Class 2 (C) licence.
· Valid Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence).
· Digital Tachograph Card.
· Good driving record with no serious endorsements.
· Previous experience in a similar role (preferred).
· Physically fit and able to lift/move goods if needed.
· Strong understanding of transport regulations and road safety.
· Good communication and time management skills.
Benefits:
· Company Pension Scheme
· Annual Leave
· Company bonus scheme
· Employment Policies
· Cycle-to-work scheme
· On-site parking
· Career progression
Our Promise:
At RDS, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a diverse and inclusive team drives innovation, strengthens safety and improves service across our network. We are committed to building and retaining a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. Our recruitment process is non-discriminatory, all qualified applicants, both internal and external, will receive fair consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics contained within the Equality Act 2010. We encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
RDS reserves the right to change the closing date stated above dependant on application numbers.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £14.52-£22.09 per hour
Expected hours: No less than 40 per week
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free parking
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Experience:
- Driving: 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Class 1 Licence (required)
Work Location: In person
