HGV Refuse Chargehand

South Derbyshire District Council is looking for an enthusiastic, motivated and experienced HGV Refuse Chargehand to join our Operational Services team.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering high-quality waste collection services to over 52,000 households across the district. We are looking for someone who leads by example, places health and safety at the forefront of everything they do and is committed to delivering excellent customer service.

About the Role

The standard working week is 37 hours, worked Monday to Friday, with a start time of 6:00am. The Refuse Collection Service operates on a task and finish basis, meaning that once an allocated round is completed, crews may be required to support other rounds to ensure the overall service is delivered effectively. 

To accommodate the task and finish nature of the service, there is no fixed daily finishing time. Working time includes the completion of daily vehicle safety checks, carrying out allocated collections and deliveries, and the weekly cleaning of the vehicle. 

As an HGV Refuse Chargehand, you will be responsible for leading a refuse collection crew while safely operating a Heavy Goods Vehicle. You will ensure collections are completed efficiently, safely and to a high standard, supporting the Council’s commitment to providing reliable frontline services.

You will be expected to:

• Safely drive and operate Council refuse collection vehicles.
• Supervise and motivate collection crews throughout the working day.
• Ensure daily collection rounds are completed efficiently and safely.
• Promote excellent standards of health, safety and customer care.
• Carry out daily vehicle checks and report defects promptly.
• Support Team Leaders in maintaining service performance and productivity.
• Ensure all work is undertaken in accordance with Council policies and relevant legislation.
• Assist in mentoring and supporting new employees where required

About You

The successful candidate will have:

• A valid HGV Category C driving licence.
• A valid Driver CPC qualification.
• Experience working within refuse, recycling or environmental services.
• Experience supervising or leading a team.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• A positive, flexible approach with the ability to work under pressure.
• A strong commitment to health and safety.
• The ability to provide excellent customer service and represent the Council professionally.

Why Join Us?

Working for South Derbyshire District Council offers the opportunity to make a real difference to our communities while being part of a supportive and forward-thinking team.

In return we offer:

• Competitive salary.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Employee wellbeing support.
• A friendly and inclusive working environment.

If you are passionate about delivering excellent frontline services and have the skills and experience, we’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact, Lorraine.neave@southderbyshire.gov.uk

Provisional Interview Date: 3 and 4 September 2026