South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
Senior Vehicle Preparation Operative (Derriford)
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Senior Vehicle Preparation Operative (Derriford)
Senior Vehicle Preparation Operative – Fleet & Equipment Team
About the Role
The Trust’s Fleet and Equipment team is seeking committed individuals to join as a Senior Vehicle Preparation Operative in the Ambulance Vehicle Preparation (AVP) team. This role is essential in ensuring our frontline crews are prepared to respond effectively to emergencies by maintaining high safety and operational standards across our vehicle fleet.
You will lead a small team of Vehicle Preparation Operatives in preparing ambulances daily, replacing our current 6-week deep-clean cycle. This transformation is critical as the SW Devon AVP service adapts to growing patient demand levels—changing current processes will directly enhance patient resource availability.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to join during an operational shift in how ambulance fleet care is delivered, placing an emphasis on patient safety, preventive care, and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a team of Vehicle Preparation Operatives, motivating and guiding them in preparing ambulances to the highest standards.
- Daily AVP duties, including:
- Deep cleaning and restocking of ambulances.
- Comprehensive infection prevention & control (IPAC) activities.
- Inspection and maintenance of medical devices and equipment.
- Refuelling vehicles, ensuring compliance with fleet standards.
- Driving and transporting vehicles to and from locations as required.
- Adhere to standards processes that ensure ambulances meet operational readiness for patient care.
- Support Operational teams in meeting performance targets while prioritising patient safety.
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Requirements
- A valid full driving license (C1 category preferred, or willingness to attain during probation).
- Experience in vehicle/equipment preparation, cleaning, or healthcare support is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Strong leadership skills to mentor colleagues and drive team outcomes.
- Ability to work flexibly, including access to duting hours, shifts, and remote locations as required.
- Commitment to our values: one team, compassionate, and innovative.
- Willingness to upskill through video training (e.g., AVP guide).
- Access to our career development pathways to progress across the Trust.
About the Workplace
You’ll be based in Plymouth, a historic, vibrant city with strong community links, excellent transport, and a rich mix of culture, dining, and independent shops.
We are South Western Ambulance Service (SWAST), operating across the largest ambulance region in England. On an average day, we respond to 2,650 incidents—each requiring a commitment to balancing urgency with compassionate care.
Our five-year strategy prioritises continual patient care improvements, aligning this role with our mission to deliver exceptional service.
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You in this Role
Join a place where your efforts directly impact lives. You’ll work with colleagues who share your dedication to every person, every call.
We offer:
- Superior career growth opportunities within the Trust.
- Professional development and training to bolster skills in operational efficiency, patient care, and leadership.
- Corporate benefits & employee supports:
- Competitive NHS salary.
- 37.5-hour standard workweek, rising holiday entitlements (27 days/year rising to 33 after 10 years).
- Pay enhancements for shift/overtime work.
- Generous staff pension scheme.
- Career progression opportunities, including salary increments.
- Benefits package: car leasing scheme, free parking, staff networks, and exclusive discounts with national retailers.
- Discounts across UK organisations for employee well-being.
Where to Go Next
For further details or informal site visits: 📧 HR Services: HRServices@swast.nhs.uk 📂 Additional videos and team info available at Working Wonders Join Us.
This role is an invitation to intensify the value of every ambulance ride. Ready to make a difference? We welcome application through Trust recruitment portals.
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