At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Works Operative, processing orders and managing stock with precision.
- Company: Be part of a dynamic company committed to quality and safety in operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy a bonus scheme, private healthcare, and 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Why this job: This role offers a collaborative environment and opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid counterbalance forklift license and experience in a warehouse setting.
- Other info: Full-time hours with a supportive health and wellbeing programme.
A great opportunity has arisen for an experienced, motivated works operative to join the despatch team, supporting the safe handling, packing, and shipment products for a world renowned manufacturer.
Find out exactly what skills, experience, and qualifications you will need to succeed in this role before applying below.
Key Responsibilities
Pick, pack, palletise, and label orders in line with customer and carrier requirements.
Book transport and create despatch documentation (courier bookings, labels, manifests).
Prepare export documentation as required (commercial invoices, packing lists, SDS references).
Load/unload vehicles safely using forklift trucks (where licensed).
Support internal audits and corrective actions
Operate ERP/warehouse systems for booking, issuing, and inventory movements.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organised workplace using 5S standards.
Follow SOPs and risk assessments (COSHH, manual handling, PPE).
Report hazards, incidents, and near misses; contribute to continuous improvement.
Safely operate material handling equipment and adhere to site traffic management rules.
Work closely with Production, Quality, Customer Service, and Logistics.
Support training of colleagues and participate in cross-functional problem-solving.Beneficial Skills / Experience:
Counterbalance Forklift licence (in-date) and confident, safe operation.
Warehouse/Despatch experience, ideally in FMCG, chemicals, or food-grade environments.
Experience with ERP/WMS systems (e.g., booking stock, picking lists, despatch modules).
Strong attention to detail; accurate data entry and documentation.
Good numeracy and literacy; able to interpret work orders, labels, and specifications. xiskglj
Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling (with appropriate aids provided).
Basic understanding of export/logisticsAdditional Details:
Full-time position: 35 hours per week
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Bonus scheme
23 days annual leave plus bank holidays and additional time off at Christmas
Defined contribution pension scheme
Life assurance
Private healthcare
Free on-site parking
On-site canteen
Company events
Cycle to work scheme
Free flu vaccinations
Health & wellbeing programme
Sick pay
Works Operative employer: Reed Specialist Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Reed Specialist Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Works Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the 5S principles, as they are crucial for this role. Being able to demonstrate your understanding of these principles during an interview can show that you're proactive about improving efficiency.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in a warehouse or operational environment. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've contributed to team success and maintained safety standards.
✨Tip Number 3
If you have a valid counterbalance forklift license, make sure to mention it prominently. If not, consider obtaining one before applying, as it's essential for this position and will give you a competitive edge.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your communication skills and teamwork experiences. This role requires collaboration, so be ready to share how you've effectively worked with others in past roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Works Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in warehouse or operational environments. Emphasise your counterbalance forklift license and any previous roles that demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your proactive attitude and detail-oriented nature. Mention specific examples of how you've delivered excellent customer service and contributed to team efficiency in past roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your strong initiative, communication skills, and health and safety awareness. These are key attributes for the Works Operative role and should be evident in your written materials.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed Specialist Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in a warehouse or operational environment. Highlight specific examples where you successfully processed orders, managed stock levels, or used a counterbalance forklift truck.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Since the role requires strong health and safety awareness, be ready to talk about how you've prioritised safety in past roles. Mention any relevant training or certifications that demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This position values collaboration, so share examples of how you've worked effectively within a team. Discuss any experiences where you contributed to team goals or supported colleagues in achieving operational efficiency.
✨Prepare for Continuous Improvement Questions
Expect questions about continuous improvement and the 5S principles. Think of instances where you've identified areas for improvement in your work processes and how you implemented changes to enhance efficiency.