Recovery Driver - Chelmsford

Role overview

Join The AA as an HGV Recovery Driver based in Chelmsford and use your driving, technical, and customer-handling skills to assist people during breakdowns. In this role, you’ll work largely on your own, but you’ll be backed by a supportive team and trusted to deliver calm, efficient roadside help. Your work may involve recovering a vehicle to a garage or helping a customer continue their journey safely.

Pay and work pattern

The guaranteed minimum pay is approximately £36,044 for candidates holding a CE (HGV 1) licence and £32,564 for those with a C (HGV 2) licence. These figures include a location allowance. On-target earnings are £42,120 for CE and £36,600 for C licence holders.

The rota follows a rolling pattern of 18 working days in every 28, with two full weekends off. Standard shifts last 9 hours and 45 minutes and include a 45-minute break. Some flexibility at the end of a shift is expected, and depending on operational demand, working time may extend up to 12 hours including breaks.

The depot postcode is CM1 3SR. To be considered, you must live within 25 miles or one hour’s travel time from the depot.

What you’ll be doing

• Providing a high-quality recovery service while keeping stranded customers reassured and safe.
• Working alone across different locations and weather or traffic conditions, while staying connected to a wider team.
• Troubleshooting situations on the roadside and applying practical judgment to resolve issues quickly.
• Following EU driving regulations and WTD rules, while representing the organisation professionally and consistently aiming to improve service standards.

What you need

• A full Category C driving licence is required. If you already hold a Category CE licence, that is an advantage; if not, support is available to help you obtain it.
• A current Driver CPC qualification and a digital tachograph card.
• Confidence with technology and the ability to adapt to new tools and systems.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and Bank Holidays.

Benefits and additional information

• 23 days of annual leave, increasing with service, plus an option to buy extra holiday.
• Worksave pension scheme with employer contributions of up to 7%.
• Free AA breakdown cover from day one, plus a 50% discount for family and friends.
• Discounts on AA products, including car and home insurance.
• Access to an employee discount programme, including a car salary sacrifice scheme and savings on healthcare, shopping, holidays, and more.
• Company-funded life assurance.
• Training and development opportunities to help support career growth.
• Employee Assistance Programme and 24/7 remote GP access for you and your family.

Hiring process and conditions

Applications are submitted through a short online form. If shortlisted, you will be invited to an online interview and standard pre-employment screening, which includes reference checks, credit checks, and criminal record checks. The AA describes itself as an inclusive employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds.