Driver

Somerset Council; Taunton; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous annual leave

Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

Flexible and hybrid working where/when

Health and wellbeing support

Job summary

Somerset Council is seeking professional drivers to operate passenger transport vehicles safely, following prescribed routes and ensuring passenger comfort, security and wellbeing. You will perform routine vehicle checks, keep the vehicle clean, and operate equipment per guidelines.

The role requires a Class D1 driving licence, good people skills, reliability and strong safety awareness. A flexible, shift-based schedule is in place to cover five days over seven.

Qualifications

• Experience in transporting passengers safely.
• Daily vehicle checks and keeping the vehicle clean.
• Adherence to safety guidelines including rear lift equipment.

Responsibilities

• Attend to the safety and wellbeing of passengers during travel.
• Assist passengers on and off the vehicle safely.
• Follow procedures and safety guidelines, including rear lift use.
• Perform routine daily vehicle checks and keep the vehicle clean.
• Maintain punctuality and good communication with passengers and staff.
• Demonstrate flexibility with shifts and duties.

Skills

Passenger care

Safety awareness

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Class D1 driving licence

Job description

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. 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.

• 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.

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: AG0208 Driver FINAL.pdf

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.

Benefits

• 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.