Trainee Bus Driver

Arriva UK Bus Ltd; Sefton; Hybrid; GBP 1,713,000 - 2,439,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

CPC training

Career progression

Flexible shifts

Free bus travel

Job summary

Arriva is hiring at the Southport depot for trainee bus drivers, offering paid training to obtain a PCV licence and progression into driving roles. You’ll work to a rotating shift pattern, serve the community, and enjoy benefits like free family travel and staff discounts.

Starting pay is £15.07/hour during training, rising after 12 months, with overtime options and ongoing CPC training to advance your career within Arriva.

Qualifications

• Be over 18 years old with at least 12 months of driving experience.
• Hold a valid UK driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points.
• Pass a drug and alcohol test.
• Great customer service and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Drive buses and ensure passenger safety and comfort.
• Engage with regular passengers and provide helpful information.
• Maintain professional conduct and contribute to a positive community image.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Job description

Start Your Bus Driving Career with Arriva at our Southport depot– Trainee Opportunities Available!

At Arriva, you’ll be at the heart of your community, helping commuters get to work, children to school, and neighbours to the shops. Whether you’re an experienced PCV Driver or looking to start a new career as a Trainee Bus Driver, we have a role for you.

As a Bus Driver, you’ll build relationships with regular passengers, be a friendly face, and play a vital role in connecting our customers to what matters most. Did you know Bus Drivers are among the most thanked professionals in the UK?

We’re proud of our customer service and the support we provide to the community. If you’re a like-minded individual with a passion for people, we’d love to have you on our team!

Pay Rates:

Trainee Driver – £15.07 per hour (3 weeks)

After Training (Trainees):

• Monday to Friday - £15.07 per hour (rising to £18.30 after 12 months)
• Saturday & Sunday - £18.84 per hour (Rising to £22.88 per hour after 12 months)
• Bank Holiday - £22.60 (Rising to £27.45 per hour after 12 months)
• Overtime: Flat rate

What’s in It for You?

• Trainee Drivers: Full paid training, including obtaining your PCV licence through our Arriva Training School.
• Ongoing CPC training for all drivers and professional development opportunities.
• Career progression into management, support training, or becoming an expert driver.
• Flexible and rotating shifts planned 6-8 weeks in advance.
• Free bus travel for you and your family (or a nominee).
• Access to the Arriva Village for store discounts and offers.
• Free staff bus and shuttle services to and from work.
• Monthly rewards through the Mydrive app for top-performing drivers.

Shift Patterns:

• 5 out of 7 rotating shift patterns, planned up to 6-8 weeks in advance so you can plan around shifts.
• Mornings starting from 04:00, Afternoons start from 12:00 and Evenings from 18:00 on a rotational basis.
• We cannot offer fixed early, afternoon or evenings separately.
• Overtime available at request / availability.

Requirements:

• Be over 18 years old with at least 12 months of driving experience.
• Hold a valid UK driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points.
• Pass a drug and alcohol test.
• Great customer service and communication skills.
• No more than 6 penalty points.
• Pass a drug and alcohol test.
• Demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills.

Why Join Arriva?

At Arriva, we’re not just connecting passengers; we’re creating a community that values inclusion and diversity. Whether you’re an experienced driver or starting your journey as a trainee, you’ll enjoy paid training, enhanced pay rates, and a supportive team environment where you can thrive.