Trade Waste Driver

Panda is a leading waste management solutions provider and a champion of the circular economy. We are seeking a highly experienced, professional HGV Trade Waste Driver to join our team in Leeds. This is a vital role focused on sustainable resource recovery and environmental service operations.

The Role at a Glance

You will be responsible for the safe and efficient collection and transportation of commercial and industrial waste using our modern fleet of HGV Class 2 vehicles.  Shift start 4-5am Monday to Friday.

Key Responsibilities & Keywords

• HGV Driving: Safely operate Class 2 vehicles on scheduled trade waste collection routes.
• Compliance: Adhere strictly to DVSA regulations, Working Time Directive (WTD), drivers’ hours, and waste duty of care.
• Vehicle Management: Conduct thorough daily vehicle checks and accurately report defects.
• Digital Records: Maintain accurate documentation using tablet technology for waste transfer notes.
• Route Optimisation: Execute efficient route planning to maximise productivity.
• Health & Safety: Champion Health and Safety standards, reporting incidents promptly.

Essential Requirements

To score highly on the ATS, all keywords must match the search criteria:

• Valid UK HGV Class 2 (Category C) Licence.
• Current and in-date Driver CPC Qualification (or CPC Card).
• Digital Tachograph Card.
• Proven HGV operations experience (experience in the waste sector preferred).
• Excellent customer-facing skills and communication ability.

Compensation & Benefits Package

The average working week is 40 hours plus overtime.

• Hourly Rate: 14.47
• Overtime: x1.3(paid after 40 hours)
• Performance Bonuses: OTIF Bonus and a bonus per bin serviced.
• Paid Break: 1 paid break per shift.
• Stability: Predictable hours with opportunities for weekend overtime.
• Equipment: Full PPE and uniform provided. Modern, safety-compliant fleet.

We are Panda. We value waste.

We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.

Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.

At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together.

We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.

We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make.

And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.

Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact.

Take the first step and join us on the journey.

Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.
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