CWM Environmental

32k - 45k

Pay range

high

Future demand

Skills

Advanced driving skills
Road safety awareness
Vehicle knowledge and maintenance
Time management
Attention to detail
Communication skills
Training and mentoring ability
Problem-solving
Professionalism and responsibility

Qualifications

Class 2 HGV Licence
Class 1 HGV Licence
Driver Trainer Certification
IOSH Managing Safely
CPC Licence

Career Roadmap

Dave Hardwell

1/4

Class 1 & 2 Driver – South West England (1990s)

During the 1990s, Dave worked as a Class 1 and Class 2 Driver transporting fresh produce across the South West of England. This role helped him build extensive experience in logistics, time management, and safe vehicle operation while working to strict delivery schedules.

2/4

Driver at CRES, Carmarthenshire (2000s)

Dave later worked for CRES in Carmarthenshire, transporting waste and materials using both Class 1 and Class 2 vehicles. This role introduced him to the waste and recycling industry, developing his knowledge of materials movement, operational safety, and environmental services.

3/4

Class 1 Driver at CWM Environmental (2013 – 2021)

In 2013, Dave joined CWM Environmental as a Class 1 Driver, supporting waste and recycling operations across the organisation. He became a trusted and experienced member of the transport team, helping ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations across multiple sites.

4/4

Class 1 Driver & Driver Trainer at CWM Environmental (2021 – Present)

In 2021, Dave expanded his role to become a Driver Trainer alongside his driving responsibilities. He now supports and mentors other drivers, helping maintain high safety standards, share industry knowledge, and develop the next generation of professional drivers at CWM.

Job description

As a Class 1 Driver and Trainer at CWM, I play a crucial role in keeping our operations moving safely, efficiently, and professionally. From transporting materials across sites to supporting essential waste and recycling services, my role helps ensure that vehicles, people, and resources are in the right place at the right time. Alongside my driving responsibilities, I also train and support other drivers, helping them build confidence, develop safe working practices, and maintain the high standards expected across CWM. It’s a role that combines skill, responsibility, and teamwork, all while supporting the wider Circular Economy.

My Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

Operating Class 1 vehicles safely and efficiently across multiple sites and locations
Transporting waste, recycling, and materials in line with company procedures and regulations
Carrying out daily vehicle checks and reporting any defects or maintenance issues
Ensuring compliance with driver hours, tachograph rules, and health and safety procedures
Supporting and training new and existing drivers to maintain high driving standards
Delivering driver inductions, mentoring, and practical guidance on safe working practices
Working closely with operational teams to ensure collections and deliveries run smoothly
Maintaining accurate paperwork, records, and transport documentation
Representing CWM professionally when interacting with customers, contractors, and members of the public

My Journey to Where I Am Now:

I’ve worked in the driving industry throughout my career, building experience across Wales, Bristol, and the South West of England. I originally started out transporting fruit and vegetables, which taught me the importance of time management, responsibility, and working to tight schedules. Over the years, I transitioned into materials movement and bulk haulage, developing a strong understanding of logistics, vehicle operations, and safe transport practices. I joined CWM Environmental in 2013, where I’ve continued to build my experience as a Class 1 Driver while also taking on responsibilities as a Driver Trainer, helping support and develop the next generation of drivers within the industry.

Key Attributes for Success in My Role:

Excellent knowledge of Class 1 vehicle operation and road safety procedures
Strong awareness of transport regulations, driver hours, and compliance requirements
Calm and professional approach when working under pressure or managing tight schedules
Good communication skills when supporting and training other drivers
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing situations on the road
Reliable, responsible, and committed to maintaining high operational standards
A safety-first mindset with a strong focus on protecting people, vehicles, and the environment
Ability to work independently while also supporting wider operational teams
Patience and leadership skills when mentoring and developing new drivers

What I Love About My Role & Challenges:

What I enjoy most about my role is the variety that comes with it and the responsibility of keeping operations moving safely and efficiently every day. No two days are ever the same, and I take pride in being part of a team that plays an important role in supporting the Circular Economy. I also enjoy the training side of the role, helping other drivers build confidence, improve their skills, and work safely. The biggest challenges can come from managing busy schedules, changing road conditions, and ensuring everything runs smoothly under pressure, but that’s also what makes the job rewarding.