Articulated Driver

Job Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Supervisor, Transportation and Logistics Management, the incumbent is required to operate heavy and specialized vehicles with the Agency’s fleet, including but not limited to tractor and tree spade (to excavate and replant trees) and trucks to transport cargo to designated locations. Ensure that any equipment/vehicle assigned is always roadworthy, in optimal condition and properly maintained; undertaking general transportation assignments; preparing reports and maintaining records on the operations of the vehicle. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Operates assigned heavy equipment such as a backhoe, tree transplanter, low boy, trucks, graders, tractors as per license and competence. 
• Verifies with supervisor/onsite field officer/Manager, the trees to be removed and the readiness of the receiving site. 
  • Navigates around and/or removes obstacles, as far as is practical to excavate/replant trees. 
  • Documents details of assignments in motor vehicle logbook 
  • Keeps abreast of knowledge relating to the vehicle/equipment operated and employs safe operational practices. 
  • Assists with site preparation as required. 
• Ensures the optimal readiness of vehicle assigned by: 
  • Conducting a daily check of the vehicle prior to operation to ensure that all major components to include but not limited to braking, signaling and hydraulic systems are functioning properly, and that all consumables within operational parameters e.g. oil, water, brake & hydraulic fluids, tyres (including spares), and other accessories. 
  • Reporting any defect, deficiencies, shortages, or damage identified to the dispatching officer, verbally and in writing.
  • Checking License, Fitness, and Insurance Documents to confirm currency and to advise the Transportation Management Officer for action as needed. 
  • Ensuring that the vehicle is thoroughly cleaned (exterior and interior) and presentable at all times. 
• Undertakes general driving assignments as directed by: 
  • Ensuring a full understanding of instructions concerning the destination and purpose of the assignment and any other pertinent information from the dispatching person ahead of deployment. 
  • Obtaining and signing for consumables (fuel, oil, etc.) where necessary.
  • Transporting authorized people, equipment, material, mail, or other items as directed. 
  • Assists passengers and is courteous, efficient, helpful and kind in the discharge of assigned duties. 
• Prepares reports and maintains records on the operation of the vehicle/equipment by:
  • Completing the Daily Assignment Record, as prescribed. 
  • Completing the Daily Motor Vehicle Logbook. 
  • Preparing reports detailing circumstances of any accident in which the vehicle/equipment may be involved, as soon as practicable but no more than 7 days later. 

Required Competencies:

Technical 

• Working knowledge of the rules and regulations involved in the safe and efficient operation of Heavy-duty vehicles and equipment. 
• Ability to operate Heavy-duty hydraulic and other vehicles (including 4x4 manual shift motor vehicles). 
• Knowledge of basic automotive maintenance procedures. 
• Defensive driving skills. 
• Basic computer skills. 

Behavioural 

• Good Interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to deal effectively and courteously with others. 
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. 
• Pleasant personality. 

Minimum Required Education and Experience

• School Leavers certificate or its equivalent 
• Holder of a valid (general) driver’s license (Open). 
• Training in defensive driving 
• Three (3) to five (5) years’ operating large vehicles (7,000Kg and above)
• The ability to operate a motorcycle would be an asset. 
• Training in basic vehicles and hydraulic machinery maintenance would be an asset. 

Special Requirements

• Must be over 21 years of age or older with a clean driving record. 
• Must take and successfully pass a pre-employment drugs test. 
• Must take and successfully pass ITA’s certified driving test. 

We thank all persons who express an interest; however, only short-listed applicants will be contacted.