HGV 1 DRIVER

Overview

Job Summary
We are seeking a professional HGV Class 1 Driver to join our busy client based in Reading. The successful candidate will be responsible for securely loading, transporting & delivering specialised freight namely Dangerous Goods (UN Hazardous). Classes 1-9 including explosives and radioactive material), sensitive and prohibited items to client’s sites in accordance with ADR legislation and the Company’s Security Plan adhering to strict daily schedules, across various locations, ensuring compliance with all relevant road safety and transportation regulations.

Responsibilities

• Daily DfT vehicle defect checks (via PDAs) and completion of check sheets.
• Daily MHE and equipment checks.
• Familiarisation/preparation / planning of routes to scheduled collection and delivery sites as determined by the Lead Operations Co-Ordinator department’s route plans/movement plans. For European journeys this will include referring to the FTA European Road Transport Guide to ensure compliancy with country specific driving regulations.
• Application of ADR regulations, Aviation Security Regulations, Section 5 regulations, Security Sensitive assets movement regulations and Customer Specific instructions for example delivery to named person only and necessary escalation if named person not available.
• Adherence to government regulations / legislations (including Working Time Directive and Drivers Hours) with regards to road users.
• Safe and secure vehicle operation (single manned and double manned runs). Loading, unloading and securing of freight on vehicle.
• Palletising and packing of freight.
• Conducting site surveys and reporting back to Lead Operations Co-Ordinator to assist in movement / project planning – nothing formal – Just word of mouth.
• Carrying out basic ‘plug & play’ on IT moves.
• Maintaining the security of vehicle and loads at all times in line with the document ‘Duties of a Security Driver’. Paperwork collation, POD usage and goods verification on collection and delivery.
• Escalation of any discrepancies in goods / paperwork to Road Transport team for further instructions prior to leaving the customer’s site.
• Escalation of any security breaches/breakdowns / emergencies in line with company procedures.
• Reporting all incidents / accidents / non-conformances to the Road Transport team immediately when they occur and on return to base, via the completion of incident report form.
• Maintaining vehicle cleanliness – clean your vehicle at least once a week.
• Maintaining a smart, professional appearance by wearing full uniform provided by the client at all times when representing the company.

General

• Assisting in maintaining a safe and clean working environment by adhering to all Client health and safety policies and procedures.
• Adhering to all the client’s security policies and procedures.
• Adhering to all of the client’s quality policies and procedures.
• At all times upholding the values, brand and reputation of the Company through conduct, behaviour and appearance.
• At all times actively support the business aims, objectives, policies and procedures.
• Undertake any other duties as may be required by Senior Management commensurate with the responsibilities of the job or the requirements of the business.

Experience

• Full UK Category C+E (Class 1)Licence
• Valid Driver’s License
• Strong knowledge of Drivers Code
• ADR Qualification(Core & Packages preferred) class 1 + class 7
• Experience transporting dangerous goods
• Experience within defence, military, government, or high-security logistics environments
• Existing BPSSand/or SC Clearance(highly desirable)
• Excellent vehicle checks, defect reporting, and compliance standards (excellent attention to detail)
• Strong load securing and load restraint knowledge
• High standards of safety, professionalism, and customer service
• Experience handling high-value or sensitive cargo
• Max. 3 points on licence
• Must have a minimum of 2 years driving experience.
• Must be physically fit to load and unload.

Any additional qualifications such as ADR Class 1 (Explosives), HIAB, Forklift, First Aid, or Driver Assessor qualifications would be advantageous.

Please note: Starting Salary £43,000 per annum. Further training and development that is required due to the unique nature of of the work uplifts the salary to – £45,500pa.

Security vetting is a requirement for all roles at this client and any offers of employment are made subject to obtaining and maintaining the necessary security clearance. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK and will be required to provide proof of 5 years’ UK residency.