Night Shift HGV Driver (Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Title: Night Shift HGV Driver (Visa Sponsorship Available)
Company: Rapier Employment
Location: Abingdon, Home Counties (Oxfordshire), OX14 3NG
Salary: £32,000 – £40,000 per annum + night shift allowance + overtime
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent (Visa Sponsorship Supported)

About Rapier Employment

Rapier Employment is a leading recruitment agency with over 20 years of expertise in connecting skilled professionals to roles across the UK’s logistics, manufacturing, and transport sectors. Renowned for our personalised approach, we specialise in matching drivers with businesses that value safety, efficiency, and reliability. Our Abingdon branch is a key player in the Home Counties’ logistics network, partnering with major retailers, distributors, and supply chain operators to keep goods moving 24/7.

At Rapier, we recognise the vital role night shift drivers play in sustaining the UK economy. We’re committed to supporting both local and international talent, offering visa sponsorship to skilled HGV drivers ready to contribute to our after-hours fleet. With a focus on employee well-being and career progression, we provide tailored training, modern vehicles, and a culture that celebrates diversity and teamwork.

Job Description

Rapier Employment is hiring Night Shift HGV Drivers to join our expanding logistics team in Abingdon. This role is ideal for night owls who excel in a fast-paced environment and understand the critical importance of overnight deliveries in keeping supermarket shelves stocked, hospitals supplied, and industries operational. You’ll operate Class 1 or Class 2 vehicles (depending on experience), transporting goods across the UK during twilight hours, ensuring timely and secure deliveries.

Why This Role Matters:

While the world sleeps, you’ll be the backbone of the supply chain. Night shift drivers ensure that the UK wakes up to fresh produce, essential medical supplies, and retail goods. At Rapier, we reward this responsibility with competitive pay, visa support, and a structured career path. Whether you’re a UK resident or an international driver seeking stability, this role offers the tools to thrive in a sector where your work truly makes a difference.

Key Responsibilities

Your night-time duties will include:

• Vehicle Operation: Safely drive HGVs (Class 1/2) on pre-planned routes, adhering to strict delivery windows and overnight traffic regulations.
• Loading/Unloading: Oversee or assist with loading goods (e.g., perishables, pharmaceuticals, retail stock) using forklifts or manual handling, ensuring load security.
• Night Navigation: Optimise routes using GPS and local knowledge to avoid daytime congestion, roadworks, and low bridges.
• Vehicle Checks: Conduct thorough pre- and post-shift inspections, reporting mechanical issues (e.g., lighting, brakes) critical for night safety.
• Compliance: Adhere to EU Drivers’ Hours rules, maintain digital tachograph records, and complete mandatory Driver CPC training.
• Documentation: Manage delivery notes, PODs, and temperature logs (for refrigerated loads) using in-cab technology.
• Communication: Update transport managers via hands-free devices, reporting delays or incidents in real-time.
• Safety Focus: Drive defensively in low-light conditions, conduct risk assessments at delivery sites, and wear high-visibility PPE.
• Flexibility: Work 4–5 nights per week (typically 8–12-hour shifts), including weekends and bank holidays.

Requirements

Essential Qualifications:

• Valid UK Class 1 (C+E) or Class 2 (C) Licence or equivalent international licence (we assist with conversion).
• Driver CPC Qualification or willingness to train.
• Right to work in the UK or eligibility for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship.

Skills & Experience:

• Minimum 6 months of HGV driving experience (night shifts preferred).
• Clean driving record with no major endorsements (e.g., DR, IN, CU).
• Familiarity with UK motorways and A-roads, particularly in the Home Counties.
• Physical stamina for prolonged driving and occasional heavy lifting.
• Proficiency with digital tachographs and basic vehicle diagnostics.

Preferred Attributes:

• Experience with refrigerated or ADR-regulated vehicles.
• FORS accreditation or familiarity with London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS).
• Multidrop or warehouse delivery experience.

Benefits

Why Join Rapier Employment?

• Visa Sponsorship: Comprehensive support for Skilled Worker Visa applications, including legal fees and COS assistance.
• Competitive Pay: Earn £32K–£40K base salary + £2,000 annual night shift allowance + paid overtime.
• Relocation Package: Support with accommodation, UK bank setup, and local transport links.
• Health & Wellbeing: Private healthcare, 24/7 GP access, and mental health resources tailored for shift workers.
• Training: Free CPC modules, ADR certification, and Class 1 licence upgrades for Class 2 drivers.
• Work-Life Balance: Fixed shift patterns, guaranteed rest days, and 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata).
• Modern Fleet: Drive late-model HGVs equipped with advanced safety tech (e.g., lane assist, night vision cameras).
• Pension Scheme: Auto-enrolment with employer contributions matched up to 5%.
• Team Culture: Join a supportive, multicultural team with regular safety awards and social events.

How to Apply

Ready to power the night shift? Send your CV and a cover letter explaining your HGV experience to nightdrivers@rapieremployment.co.uk with the subject line “Night Shift HGV Driver – Visa Support”.

Application Deadline: Ongoing (Interviews held weekly).

Contact Information:
Rapier Employment
Abingdon Logistics Hub
Marcham Road, Abingdon
Oxfordshire, OX14 3NG
Tel: 01235 123 456
Email: nightdrivers@rapieremployment.co.uk