At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate a counterbalance forklift in various warehouse areas to ensure smooth operations.
- Company: Cotteswold Dairy is a family-owned dairy with a rich history since 1938.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment and the chance to be part of a reputable company.
- Other info: This role offers a dynamic work setting across multiple areas of the depot.
- Why this job: Join a friendly team and contribute to a well-respected brand in the dairy industry.
- Qualifications: Previous forklift driving experience and a valid counterbalance licence are required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 Β£ per year.
Counterbalance Forklift Driver β Chilled Warehouse (Tewkesbury)
Qualifications, skills, and all relevant experience needed for this role can be found in the full description below.
New state-of-the-art chilled warehouse Modern electric FLTs Clear progression pathways
Employer: Cotteswold Dairy
Department: Chilled Warehouse
Location: Tewkesbury Depot, GL20 8JE
Hours: Minimum 37.5 hours per week, 5 days over 7 on a shift rota (MonSat working patterns may apply)
Shift Times: Multiple start times from 0400
Overtime: after 40 hours
What you get from this job
If youre looking for a stable, hands-on role where youll be supported, developed, and given real opportunities to progress, this is it. Youll join our Chilled Warehouse team at our modern Tewkesbury site, working with the latest electric forklift trucks and structured processes designed to help you work safely, smoothly and confidently.
Why youll enjoy working here
Brand-new facilities: work in a modern chilled warehouse, glass fridge and loading bay environment with updated layouts and safety systems
Modern fleet: electric trucks with pre-use check systems, card-based operator access, heated cabs/seats and strong visibility features
Training & development: refresher FLT/PPT training, NVQs and our in-house development programme through the Cotteswold Academy
Career progression: clear pathways into Team Leader, Warehouse Supervisor and wider distribution roles
A team that supports you: youll work closely with Team Leaders, Supervisors, Production and Distribution to keep goods moving safely and on time
What youll be doing
This is a key role in our distribution chain, linking production with the transport team and helping ensure customer orders are prepared accurately and loaded safely. Youll work across areas including the chilled warehouse, glass fridge, factory floor and external loading bays, supporting the flow of products to wholesale customers and outlying depots. This is a physical, temperature-controlled environment and requires a high level of accuracy and pride in doing things right.
Key responsibilities
Operate counterbalance FLT to safely check, transport, load and unload goods across chilled warehouse and loading areas
Accurately pick and prepare customer orders using order tickets / instructions
Complete stock rotation and replenishment to keep product flowing and reduce waste
Support safe vehicle loading: check orders are present, correctly placed, constrained and secured for travel
Maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment (warehouse and yard areas)
Follow food hygiene and health & safety rules at all times; report incidents promptly and support investigations when required
Work collaboratively across departments to meet deadlines and keep distribution running smoothly
About you
Valid Counterbalance Forklift Licence (renewed within the last 3 years)
Experience operating FLT in a warehouse, distribution, FMCG, chilled food or food production environment
Strong attention to detail, good numeracy and a methodical approach
Reliable, flexible and positive able to work to tight deadlines and shift patterns
Confident communicator who can work well independently and as part of a wider team
Desirable: dairy/FMCG experience, knowledge of safe working practices, PPT experience
Additional information
Manual handling is required and strict hygiene standards apply
Jewellery/cosmetics restrictions apply in production areas (only a single solid wedding band permitted; no earrings/bracelets/necklaces; no strong perfumes/deodorants; no make-up in production areas)
Due to early shift start times, you must have reliable transport to the Tewkesbury site
You will be asked to upload your forklift licence as part of the application process
Team Cotteswold benefits
Competitive salary with overtime opportunities
30 days holiday allowance that increases with length of service
Refer-a-friend bonus scheme (Β£500 per referral)
Cycle to work scheme
Discounted products and delivery options
Aviva pension (4% employee, 4.5% employer contributions)
Health and wellbeing support through Simply Health (claim back eligible medical costs)
How to apply
Click Apply and submit your CV. We review applications as they arrive and may close the vacancy early if we find the right candidates. xiskglj
Keywords: Counterbalance Forklift Driver, FLT Driver, Forklift Operator, Warehouse Operative, Chilled Warehouse, Goods In, Loading Bay, Distribution, Logistics, Order Picking, Stock Rotation, Replenishment, Food Manufacturing, Dairy, FMCG, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, Electric Forklift, Warehouse Jobs.
Forklift Driver employer: Cotteswold Dairy Ltd
Contact Detail:
Cotteswold Dairy Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Forklift Driver
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific types of forklifts used at Cotteswold Dairy. Knowing the ins and outs of a counterbalance forklift will not only boost your confidence but also show your potential employer that you're serious about the role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in a chilled warehouse environment during your conversations. This can set you apart from other candidates, as it demonstrates your ability to work in similar conditions and handle temperature-sensitive products.
β¨Tip Number 3
Make sure to showcase your commitment to safety practices. Discussing your understanding of health and safety regulations related to forklift operation can reassure us that you prioritise safety in the workplace.
β¨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Cotteswold Dairy if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Forklift Driver
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Counterbalance Forklift Driver. Highlight your experience with forklift operations, safety protocols, and any relevant certifications in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your skills and experiences that are directly related to the job. Include specific examples of your previous forklift driving roles and any achievements that demonstrate your reliability and efficiency.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working in a family-owned business like Cotteswold Dairy. Mention why you want to join their team and how your skills align with their needs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves operating machinery safely.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cotteswold Dairy Ltd
β¨Know Your Forklift Basics
Make sure you brush up on your forklift knowledge, especially regarding counterbalance forklifts. Be prepared to discuss your experience operating them and any relevant certifications you hold.
β¨Safety First
Cotteswold Dairy places a high emphasis on safety. Be ready to talk about safety protocols you've followed in previous roles and how you ensure a safe working environment while operating machinery.
β¨Familiarise Yourself with the Company
Research Cotteswold Dairy and understand their values and operations. Knowing about their history and commitment to quality will help you connect with the interviewers and show your genuine interest in the role.
β¨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
As you'll be working in various areas of the warehouse, highlight your ability to work well in a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past jobs to achieve common goals.