Trainee Bus Driver

Job Description

Start your bus driving career with Arriva at our Southend depot, where you will be at the heart of your community! Whether it is getting commuters to work, helping customers shop, or getting children to school, we provide an important service in connecting our customers to what matters to them. As a Bus Driver you will build relationships, be the highlight of someone’s day, and contribute to one of the most respected jobs in the UK.

During training (first 4–6 weeks): £12.71 per hour.
After training (0–9 months): £12.71 per hour.
After 9 months:
Weekday £16.85 per hour;
Weekend & OT £17.26 per hour.

A rotating shift pattern of 5 days in 7, published up to 6–8 weeks in advance. Mornings start from 04:00, Afternoons from 12:00 and Evenings from 18:00 on a rotational basis. Overtime is available. Flexibility is required as shifts will start as early as 4AM and finish no later than 1AM.

• Transport passengers safely to their destinations.
• Ensure punctuality and adherence to route schedules.
• Provide excellent customer service, building positive relationships with familiar faces on routes.
• Maintain the cleanliness and safety of the bus, reporting any issues.

• Must be over 18 years of age.
• Hold a UK driving licence and have driven for a minimum of 6 months.
• Have no more than 6 points on your licence.
• Undergo a drug and alcohol test before assessment.
• Pass an English comprehension test.
• Have excellent people skills.
• Be flexible to work early mornings and late evenings as required.

• Full paid training including PCV licence acquisition.
• Overtime opportunities with premium pay.
• Ongoing CPC training and development opportunities.
• Career progression into management, support training, or expert driver roles.
• Access to Arriva Village discounts and offers.
• Employee assistance program.
• Free bus travel for you and your household.
• Arriva Workplace Pension.
• Long service awards.
• 20 days of holidays plus bank holidays.

At Arriva we acknowledge the importance of our people’s diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of our talent strategy. The creation of a diverse, inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential and enhance our success.