HGV Driver – AR

HGV Driver

Southwark Council – Waste & Cleaning Service
Grade: 5
Hours: 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Department: Environment, Sustainability and Leisure

About the Role

Southwark Council is looking for an experienced Large Goods Vehicle (LGV/HGV) Driver to join its Waste and Cleaning Service.

You will be responsible for driving Council vehicles of up to 32 tonnes, supporting the collection, transportation and disposal of waste and recyclable materials across the borough.

As the lead operative on the vehicle, you will also be responsible for directing other crew members and ensuring that all work is completed safely, efficiently and to a high standard.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive HGV/LGV vehicles up to 32 tonnes in accordance with the Highway Code and all relevant legislation.
• Complete daily vehicle safety and roadworthiness checks and report any defects immediately.
• Operate vehicle equipment, including tail lifts and bin lift mechanisms, safely and in accordance with training.
• Lead and direct other crew members while maintaining high standards of health and safety.
• Ensure appropriate PPE is worn and safe working practices are followed, particularly when reversing.
• Transport and dispose of residual waste, recycling, hazardous waste and other materials as required.
• Load and unload waste and other goods and carry out associated duties such as emptying litter bins, sweeping and cleaning.
• Follow procedures and site instructions when unloading waste at disposal and recycling facilities.
• Maintain accurate logbooks and records, including vehicle checks.
• Report accidents, incidents, vehicle defects and health and safety concerns promptly.
• Keep the allocated vehicle secure, clean and in a roadworthy condition.
• Maintain an up-to-date HGV driving licence, Driver CPC/Driver Qualification Card and Tachograph Card.
• Attend required training and use Council IT systems where necessary.
• Carry out all duties in line with Council health and safety, equality and diversity policies.

About You

You will have:

• A valid HGV/LGV licence suitable for driving vehicles up to 32 tonnes.
• A valid Driver CPC/Driver Qualification Card and Tachograph Card.
• Previous experience driving HGV/LGV vehicles.
• Good knowledge of vehicle safety checks, roadworthiness and defect reporting.
• An understanding of health and safety requirements when working around vehicles, waste and members of the public.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a crew and provide direction to other operatives.
• A flexible approach, as the role also involves physical and non-driving duties.

Previous waste, refuse, recycling or local authority experience would be highly beneficial.

Working Environment

This is an operational, hands-on role working across Southwark. Drivers are highly visible representatives of the Council and are expected to work professionally, courteously and safely when dealing with colleagues, residents and members of the public.