Driver

Somerset County Council; Somerton; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

LGPS pension

Flexible & hybrid working where needs

Annual leave and bank holidays

Job summary

Somerset County Council in England is seeking professional drivers to safely operate passenger transport vehicles on prescribed routes, ensuring passenger comfort, safety and wellbeing throughout the journey.

You will perform routine vehicle checks, maintain cleanliness, and operate safety equipment in line with required guidelines. The role is full-time, 37 hours per week, with rostered hours 5 days over 7.

Qualifications

• Class D1 driving licence is required.
• Demonstrates reliability, punctuality and good people skills.
• Flexibility to work rostered shifts over 5 days in a 7 day pattern.
• Commitment to safeguarding and passenger wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate passenger transport vehicles on prescribed routes.
• Attend to passenger safety, comfort and wellbeing during journeys.
• Carry out routine vehicle maintenance checks and cleanliness.
• Operate safety equipment and follow all guidelines.
• Support operations with flexible coverage as required.

Skills

Class D1 licence

Good with people

Reliable

Good timekeeping

Safety conscious

Flexible shifts

Safeguarding awareness

Passenger safety equipment

Job description

Salary: Grade 14, ranging from £26,016 - £26,847 per annum.

Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week, with rostered hours 5 days over 7 required.

Contract: Permanent

Closing date: 26 November 2026

Role Purpose

We are looking for professional drivers to safely operate our passenger transport vehicles. You will be following prescribed routes, ensuring the comfort, security and wellbeing of all passengers throughout their journey. You will also be responsible for carrying out routine vehicle maintenance checks, maintaining the vehicle’s cleanliness and ensuring all equipment used is operated correctly and in line with required guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend to the general safety and wellbeing of passengers whilst travelling.
• Assist passengers where it is safe to do so, on and off the vehicle and carry out all other duties associated with the collection and returning of passengers.
• Ensure that all correct procedures and safety guidelines are complied with, including when operating rear lift equipment.
• Undertake routine daily maintenance of the vehicle, maintaining a clean and tidy condition.
• Ensure that daily and weekly vehicle checks are undertaken.

What You’ll Bring

• Class D1 on the driving licence.
• Good with people, reliable, good timekeeper.
• Sensible, safety conscious.
• Flexible approach to work and shifts.
• Demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of people with disabilities.
• Ability to safely manage and operate vehicle-based health & safety equipment (e.g., wheelchair restraints, floor tracking).
• Strong awareness of safety procedures, including securing passengers and mobility equipment.
• Good communication skills for interacting with passengers, families, carers, and school staff.

About The Team

We are a small, friendly team that works together to provide an excellent service for our passengers. Going the extra mile and being helpful and approachable are at the heart of everything we do. This role requires flexibility and a willingness to support all areas of the operation, working collaboratively with colleagues to achieve our shared goals and deliver the best possible service.

If you are enthusiastic, customer-focused, and enjoy working as part of a supportive team, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Why Join Us?

At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

• Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most generous and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Find Out More About Working At Somerset Council

https://www.somerset.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/

Additional Information

• 25 days of annual leave (additional to bank holidays)
• We require rostered hours 5 days over 7, Monday to Sunday, that complies with the needs of the business.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Peter McNaughton, Area Operations Manager, via email at [e-mail].

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

You can find a copy of the job description here: AG0108 Generic Driver.pdf

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