Types of driving jobs in Belfast
Driving work in Belfast falls into several categories, each with different licence requirements and pay levels:
- Van and multi drop delivery using a standard driving licence, delivering parcels and goods across the city and surrounding areas
- 7.5 tonne and Category C1 roles for larger delivery vehicles, common with building suppliers and wholesale distributors
- HGV Class 1 (Category C+E) for articulated lorry work, typically on longer routes across Northern Ireland and into the Republic
- Forklift and shunter driving within warehouses and distribution yards
What licence do you need
A standard Category B driving licence is enough for most van delivery roles. For 7.5 tonne work you need Category C1, and for full HGV work you need Category C (rigid) or C+E (articulated).
A Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, known as the Driver CPC, is required for professional lorry and bus drivers. If your CPC is current, make sure you carry your card. If it is due for renewal, our team can point you towards approved training providers in Belfast.
Typical pay rates
Driving roles are among the better paid agency positions in Belfast. Van delivery work pays above the National Living Wage, while HGV drivers earn significantly more. Night shifts and weekend work carry a premium rate.
Most driving roles through Rutledge pay weekly via PAYE with holiday pay and pension included. Overtime is often available during busy periods.
What employers look for
Reliability is the single most important quality. Delivery schedules depend on drivers turning up on time and completing routes safely. A clean driving record helps, and a digital tachograph card is essential for HGV work.
For delivery van roles, employers value good customer service skills since you are often the face of the company at the doorstep. For HGV work, experience with loading procedures and knowledge of drivers hours regulations matter most.
How to apply
Register with our Belfast team and we will match you to live driving vacancies across the city. We work with distribution companies, retail logistics firms and manufacturing businesses that need drivers on an ongoing basis.
View transport and logistics jobs in Belfast or browse all jobs in Belfast to see current openings. You can also upload your CV and our team will contact you when a matching role comes in.
Keeping your CPC current
If you drive professionally, keeping your Driver CPC up to date is a legal requirement. Rutledge Training offers approved periodic training courses in Belfast that count towards your 35 hours of periodic training every five years. See available training courses or contact our training team for the next available dates.