Vehicle Preparation Operative

Vehicle Preparation Operatives are a staple of West Midlands Ambulance Service, without them, frontline staff would not be able to respond to 999 calls!

What does a Vehicle Preparation Operative do?

As a Vehicle Preparation Operative (VPO), you will work on each of our operational hubs as part of the Make Ready team to ensure the emergency vehicles; ambulances and cars are checked and roadworthy, deep cleaned and are stocked with the correct clinical equipment. The role involves working a full rotational shift pattern including evenings, weekends, nights and public holidays. You will receive full training upon commencement.

What do I need to apply?

  • Good standard of Education – minimum of 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade C or above to include English and Maths OR be willing to undertake a level 2 qualification whilst in post within the first 12 months of the role
  • Must have experience of: Similar role, e.g. stock taking/checking; vehicle valeting, and driving a variety of vehicles
  • Full (manual) UK driving licence held with no more than 3 points on licence. (Must show Provisional C1 Category on licence at point of application)

You can request the forms to apply for your C1 provisional by visiting https://www.gov.uk/become-lorry-bus-driver/applying-for-a-bus-or-lorry-provisional-entitlement and check what categories you are currently entitled to drive by visiting https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence.

What does the Recruitment process involve?

Once you submit your application via NHS Jobs, the dedicated shortlisting panel will shortlist based on whether you meet the criteria. This is done anonymously.

Should your application be shortlisted, you will be invited to attend a Highway Code assessment and if successful, a further invite to a driving assessment and interview.

Successful candidates will need to provide 2 references (one being your current or most recent employer) and will be required to attend a face to face appointment with our Occupational health provider to confirm fitness for the role.

Here’s a video recorded a few years ago (when VPO’s were called Ambulance Fleet Assistants).

Current vacancies can be found on NHS Jobs – click on the logo below:

NHS jobs

Please contact our Recruitment Team if you need any more information

Email: recruitment@wmas.nhs.uk
Telephone: 01384 989452