At a Glance
- Tasks: As a Yard Operative, you'll ensure excellent customer service through accurate picking, packing, and product knowledge.
- Company: Lawsons is the UK's largest independent fencing and builders' merchants with a rich history since 1921.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension scheme, and employee assistance programmes.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team that values your contributions and offers growth opportunities in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: You need a valid forklift licence and experience in a yard at a builders' merchants.
- Other info: Full-time hours with alternate Saturdays; perfect for those who thrive under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 24900 - 29100 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the Yard Operative role at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd.
Lawsons, the UK’s leading independent supplier of timber, fencing, and building materials, is excited to invite applications for a new Yard Operative position at our Ascot branch. If you are safety‑conscious, take pride in working outdoors, and enjoy providing first‑rate customer service, we encourage you to consider joining our team.
Yard Operative vacancy – Ascot
As a Yard Operative at Lawsons Ascot, you will play a pivotal role in the daily operations of our busy yard, working within a supportive team to ensure customers receive the high level of service we are known for. You will be hands‑on in handling, sorting, and storing building materials, whilst contributing to a safe, efficient, and customer‑focused workplace environment.
Main Responsibilities
- Safely load and unload timber, fencing, and building materials for both customer and company vehicles.
- Maintain a neat, hazard‑free yard, following all company and statutory safety procedures at all times.
- Assist customers by locating and retrieving products, providing friendly and efficient service on every interaction.
- Perform accurate inventory and regular stock checks, highlighting any discrepancies promptly to management.
- Operate manual handling equipment and, if trained, forklifts; be open to completing further safety and equipment training as required.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, actively contributing to a positive and productive team atmosphere.
- Champion a health and safety‑first approach, ensuring best practice is followed by all staff and visitors.
Essential Skills, Experience and Personal Attributes
- Proven experience in a yard, builders’ merchant, or similar outdoor/manual role is essential.
- Forklift experience with a current licence is essential (training available for the right candidate).
- Ability to safely carry out manual handling, lifting, carrying and stacking duties in an outdoor workspace.
- Sound understanding of health and safety practices, with a proactive attitude toward training and continuous improvement.
- Strong teamwork, communication and customer service skills, treating colleagues and customers from all backgrounds with respect and courtesy.
- Dependable, practical, and self‑motivated approach, with a keen eye for detail and willingness to learn new skills.
Working Hours, Salary and Benefits – Yard Operative Jobs in Ascot
- Full‑time, permanent position – Monday to Friday, plus alternate Saturday mornings (shifts ranging between 06:00 – 18:00, with 1 in 2 Sat mornings 08:00 – 12:00).
- Competitive annual salary of ÂŁ29,000, dependent on experience and relevant licensing.
- 25 days’ annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays and an additional celebration day.
- Comprehensive company benefits: pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, staff discounts, and access to Online GP via our My Reward platform.
- Ongoing training, including the chance to gain or renew forklift qualifications, and clear career development pathways within Lawsons Group.
Why Choose Lawsons Ascot for Your Yard Operative Career?
- Be part of a respected, family‑run company with a proud tradition in the UK construction sector.
- Join a friendly, inclusive team committed to a culture of safety, respect, and growth for every colleague.
- Enjoy hands‑on, meaningful work that supports both customers and the wider local community.
- Take advantage of real opportunities for long‑term progression and skill development within Lawsons.
- Receive the recognition and support you deserve as a key member of our dedicated Ascot branch team.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, ensuring an inclusive and supportive working environment.
Seniority Level
Entry level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Other
Industries
Building Materials
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Yard Operative employer: Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
Contact Detail:
Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the products and services offered by Lawsons. Understanding their range of fencing, timber, and building materials will help you engage with customers more effectively and demonstrate your knowledge during any interactions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your customer service skills in conversations or interviews. Since you'll be the first and last point of contact for customers, showcasing your ability to build rapport and provide excellent service will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience working under pressure. The yard can be a busy environment, so sharing examples of how you've successfully managed high-stress situations will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to mention your forklift truck licence and any relevant training. This is essential for the role, and being able to confidently discuss your qualifications will show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any previous roles in a yard or builders' merchants. Emphasise your forklift licence and any specific skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the Yard Operative role at Lawsons. Mention your customer service skills and ability to work under pressure, as these are key aspects of the position.
Showcase Your Product Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the products and services offered by Lawsons. This could be through specific examples of your past experiences or knowledge of the industry, which will show you’re a good fit for the team.
Highlight Health & Safety Awareness: Since the role involves adhering to health and safety standards, mention any relevant training or experiences that showcase your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Yard Operative, you'll be the first point of contact for customers. Be prepared to discuss your previous customer service experiences and how you handled challenging situations. Highlight your ability to build rapport and maintain a friendly attitude under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Product Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with common products in the fencing and timber industry. During the interview, be ready to discuss specific products and their uses. This will show that you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Hard Work
Lawsons values team players who are willing to get stuck in. Share examples from your past work where you collaborated with others or went above and beyond to support your team. This will demonstrate your commitment to contributing positively to the workplace.
✨Highlight Health & Safety Awareness
Since the role involves working in a busy yard environment, it's crucial to show your understanding of health and safety practices. Be prepared to discuss any relevant training you've had and how you ensure safety in your previous roles.