Astral is inviting suitably qualified and experienced drivers to apply for an Ultra-Heavy Motor Vehicle Driver position within its Consumer – Astral Festive business unit. This is a permanent employment opportunity based in Midrand, Gauteng, and is suited to a responsible and safety-conscious professional with strong ultra-heavy vehicle driving experience.
The successful candidate will be responsible for transporting and distributing goods to various customers while ensuring that vehicles, loads, documentation and safety procedures are properly managed throughout each trip.
Job Details
Position: Ultra-Heavy Motor Vehicle Driver
Reference Number: UNI260904-6
Business Unit: Consumer – Astral Festive
Employment Type: Permanent – Normal
Location: Midrand, Gauteng
Country: South Africa
Closing Date: 11 September 2026
Minimum Requirements
Applicants interested in this opportunity should meet the following requirements:
- Grade 12 / Matric / Senior Certificate.
- A minimum literacy level that allows the candidate to communicate effectively and work with verbal and numerical information.
- A valid Code EC driver’s licence.
- A valid PrDP (DGP).
- At least 3 years of experience operating an ultra-heavy vehicle.
- Applicants must be 25 years of age or older.
- A safe driving history is required.
- Candidates must have a clean criminal record.
- Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays is essential.
The role requires a driver who understands the importance of responsible vehicle operation, load management and compliance with road and workplace safety requirements.
Key Skills and Knowledge
The successful applicant should have a good understanding of defensive driving and the safe operation of ultra-heavy vehicles. Knowledge of vehicle components and their functions is important, as drivers are expected to identify and report defects or emergencies appropriately.
Candidates should also understand vehicle inspection procedures, including the safe use of a fire extinguisher where necessary. Knowledge of effective loading methods is important because the driver will be responsible for ensuring that goods are properly secured and that the vehicle is not overloaded.
The company also expects drivers to operate vehicles in a manner that promotes fuel efficiency, cost-effectiveness and reduced operational risks.
Duties and Responsibilities
The appointed driver will be responsible for preparing the assigned vehicle before each journey and safely operating ultra-heavy duty vehicles during transportation activities.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Conducting the necessary vehicle preparations before starting a trip.
- Driving ultra-heavy vehicles safely and responsibly.
- Loading, transporting and assisting with the offloading of goods.
- Ensuring transported goods are properly secured before departure.
- Making sure that the vehicle remains within the legally permitted load limits.
- Taking responsibility for goods during the transportation and delivery process.
- Operating suitable offloading equipment when required or supervising the offloading process.
- Opening and closing tarpaulins where applicable.
- Completing required documentation associated with transportation and deliveries.
- Carrying out additional duties that are reasonably assigned by the supervisor.
- Maintaining the cleanliness and good housekeeping of the vehicle.
- Wearing the required uniform and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Following company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and applicable safety requirements.
- Interacting with customers professionally and efficiently.
- Reporting vehicle defects, emergencies and other relevant issues through the correct procedures.
The driver must also ensure compliance with the National Road Traffic Act, particularly regarding vehicle loading and transportation requirements.
Selection and Verification Process
Candidates who are considered for the position may be required to successfully complete several company processes before appointment. These include a medical evaluation, USCS training modules, induction procedures and a practical driving assessment.
The employer will also verify that successful candidates have a clean criminal record. Applicants should therefore be prepared to undergo the necessary background and qualification checks.
Important Working Conditions
This position requires flexibility. The successful candidate must be prepared to work shifts, weekends and public holidays according to operational requirements.
Because the role involves transporting goods using ultra-heavy vehicles, a strong commitment to road safety, careful load management, vehicle inspections and professional customer service is essential.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates who meet the stated requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
Closing Date: 11 September 2026
Reference: UNI260904-6
Position: Ultra-Heavy Motor Vehicle Driver
Location: Midrand, Gauteng
Employment: Permanent
Important: Applicants should carefully review the official vacancy information and ensure that they meet the required licence, experience, age, driving record and criminal-record requirements before submitting an application.