As demand for public transport increases, First Bus has launched a recruitment campaign for drivers in Bath, including flexible “term time only” opportunities for parents.
Photo © First West of England
First West of England says the vacancies are for both qualified and trainee drivers and include full-time and part-time opportunities.
One of the available options is to work only during university term times, suitable for those looking for a career which fits around the holidays.
Doug Claringbold, Managing Director of First West of England, said: “Our drivers in Bath are a vital part of supporting our communities as they go about their daily lives across the city, especially now as we expect bus travel to grow steadily over the coming months.
“Whatever your experience First offers a great career prospect. If you are customer-service driven, flexible, reliable, and motivated, this is a very rewarding role and you’ll be working with a supportive team of people.
“Going out on the open road on various routes you’ll work on your own initiative and take ownership of your bus, looking after passenger safety and providing a great customer experience.”
As well as recruiting for full and part-time trainee and qualified drivers, First West of England is also launching a brand-new trial of new term-time work options.
“These work patterns have been introduced to recognise the need for flexibility some people require and will be a great fit for those with families that need university holidays off,” added Doug.
Elizabeth Venn, who lives in Bristol and is based at Bath Depot, has been driving buses with First West of England for eight months. She joined the company during the pandemic, from a previous role as a coach operations manager.
Elizabeth said: “I enjoy the balance the job offers me. I have been able to find a shift pattern that works for me, and approach managers to make that happen.
“I work nights and weekends, which gives me the flexibility to pursue my hobbies and other commitments. I could be out paddle boarding in the day and then, in the evening, driving a bus for people just finishing their workday, or students going out for the night.”
Phil Smith has been driving buses with First West of England for seven and a half years after switching from a career as a driving instructor.
He has been driving buses on the University routes in Bath for the past four years, and says he enjoys the work-life balance and views which driving buses in Bath offers.
“When I first started driving buses, I worked across lots of different routes,” he said.
“In the past few years, I found that having a more regular route added a bit more flexibility to my schedule outside of work. In my spare time I am involved with my local men’s football team, and with coaching football for kids in the local area.
“I have been driving on the university routes for four years now. I’m able to coach in my spare time and look after family members, without any worry of work-life being unbalanced.”
Those interested in driver posts will need a clean car licence. Successful candidates will spend four weeks in the bus company’s driving academy before being put through their paces on the road for a further three weeks with a mentor.
To apply, visit: https://uk.firstgroupcareers.com/.
First West of England is holding a recruitment Open Day on 26th June at Bath Bus Station, Southgate St, Bath, BA1 1TP. For more information, visit: https://www.firstbus.co.uk/node/187073.
