Senior Class 5 Driver – Leading Hand (Truck & Trailer)

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WM New Zealand is seeking a Senior Class 5 Driver Leading Hand in Christchurch for full time onsite work within its Technical Services division. The role travels across the South Island 3 to 4 days a week, operating Class 5 truck and trailer units to collect and transport hazardous waste while mentoring a driver team and upholding safety and accurate paperwork. Key requirements include a full Class 5 licence with proven truck and trailer experience, a DG endorsement or ability to obtain, strong knowledge of South Island routes, and a hands on leadership mindset; vacuum truck experience is a plus. Apply with a CV that highlights leadership in field operations, safety performance, and multi day travel, and confirm NZ work eligibility. Early applications encouraged.

Company Description

Christchurch Based | Full-Time | Senior-Level Role | Competitive Pay + Travel Allowances

Are you a highly experienced Class 5 truck and trailer driver who knows the South Island like the back of your hand—and ready to take the next step in your career?

Do you bring not just driving expertise, but leadership, accountability, and the confidence to guide others?

Join WM New Zealand’s Technical Services (TS) Division in a senior role where your driving skill, operational knowledge, and leadership will all shine. This is far from a routine depot-to-depot job—you’ll be travelling across the South Island for 3–4 days each week, operating specialist equipment, and helping lead a high-performing team delivering essential services.

If you take pride in setting the standard for safety, professionalism, and outstanding work—you’re exactly who we’re looking for.

About WM Technical Services

Our Technical Services (TS) Division is a specialised team built on expertise, high standards, and purpose-built systems.

You’ll work with:

• Highly skilled professionals
• Specialised Dangerous Goods transport fleet
• Industry-leading environmental and processing facilities
• A team that takes sustainability and safety seriously

If you’re passionate about doing meaningful work that protects people and the environment—this is the place to be.

Job Description

About the Role – What You’ll Own

As our Senior Class 5 Driver – Leading Hand, you will:

• Operate Class 5 truck and trailer combinations across South Island routes
• Use specialised equipment to collect, transport, and manage liquid and hazardous waste
• Lead by example—support and guide other drivers with daily operations, best practice, and safety expectations
• Take responsibility for on-road decision-making, site coordination, and ensuring high standards
• Maintain accurate paperwork, manifests, and compliance documentation
• Conduct and oversee daily vehicle checks and safety inspections
• Act as the go-to person during multi-day trips, representing WM New Zealand with professionalism and confidence
• Coordinate oil collections and deliveries

This role combines expert driving, hands-on hazardous waste operations, and team leadership—perfect for someone ready to step into a senior position.

Qualifications

What You’ll Bring

• Full Class 5 licence with proven truck & trailer experience (essential)
• DG endorsement (Dangerous Goods) – must hold or be able to obtain
• Extensive knowledge of South Island routes and long-distance driving
• Experience mentoring or supporting others—formally or informally
• A strong safety mindset and commitment to compliance
• Physically fit and comfortable with hands-on operational tasks
• Experience with a vacuum truck is preferred
• A positive attitude and the ability to represent WM professionally on the road and at customer sites

Additional Information

What’s In It for You?

• A senior-level driving position with real leadership responsibility
• Competitive pay + allowances for multi-day South Island travel
• High-quality equipment and a team that respects expertise
• A role that offers challenge, autonomy, and variety
• A company committed to growth, training, and internal promotion
• The chance to be part of an essential sector making a real environmental impact

Ready to Step Up?

Click “I’m Interested” and apply today.

We review applications as they come in—early applications are encouraged.

WM New Zealand is an equal opportunity employer and maintains a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
You must currently be in New Zealand with residency, citizenship, or a valid work visa.