Trainee Bus Driver
First Bus
About First Bus:
Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.
Trainee Bus Driver – Portsmouth, Hilsea
£13.89 per hour while training, £15.11 per hour once fully qualified
We’re looking for drivers to join our team in Portsmout. No previous bus driving experience is needed, if you’ve got a full UK driving licence, good people skills, and the right attitude, we’ll provide all the training and support you need to become a qualified driver. This is a permanent, full-time role with guaranteed contracted hours, planned rotas, and clear progression from day one.
What’s in it for you?
You’ll start on £13.80 per hour while training, increasing to £15.11 per hour once fully qualified. This is a full time permanent role with guaranteed contracted hours and structured rotas planned in advance, giving you more stability and predictability around your working week. You’ll work a variety of shifts across mornings, evenings, and weekends, with weekday time off built into the rota and opportunities for overtime to increase earnings where available.
The Role
You’ll operate local bus services across Portsmouth and surrounding areas, helping passengers travel to work, education, appointments, shopping, and days out across the city. This is a customer-facing role where safety, professionalism, and reliability are key. You’ll play an important role in keeping Portsmouth connected while delivering a safe and comfortable journey experience for passengers. Shifts are rota-based and include early mornings, evenings, and weekends, with schedules provided in advance.
What We’re Looking For
- Full UK driving licence held for at least 6 months
- Maximum of 6 penalty points
- Minimum age of 18
- Right to work in the UK
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Flexible approach to shift work
No PCV licence is required, full training is provided.
Apply today and start your next journey with First Bus.
Background checks will form part of the recruitment process.
Rewards:
Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
Free onsite parking + cycle to work scheme
Up to 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays
Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted FirstGroup shares
Enhanced maternity / paternity pay