Forklift Driver

Forklift Driver

East Kilbride Full-Time 24000 - 33600 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
Go Premium
Cotteswold Dairy

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Operate forklifts to transport and unload goods safely in a dynamic warehouse environment.
  • Company: Join Cotteswold Dairy, a trusted family-owned dairy since 1938, committed to quality and community.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 22 days holiday, referral bonuses, and health support.
  • Why this job: Be part of a supportive team with growth opportunities and cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: Valid Counterbalance Forklift Licence required; experience in food production is a plus.
  • Other info: Flexible shifts and manual handling involved; reliable transport to Tewkesbury needed.

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 ÂŁ per year.

Forklift Driver – Chilled Warehouse

Location: Tewkesbury Depot
Hours: Minimum 37.5 hours per week, 5 days over 7 on a shift rota
Shift Times: Multiple start times from 05:00
Overtime: Paid at 1.25x standard rate after 40 hours

Cotteswold Dairy, a leading family‑owned dairy since 1938, is seeking skilled and reliable Counterbalance Forklift Drivers to join our busy Chilled Warehouse team at our main Tewkesbury Depot. You will work across multiple areas, including the factory floor, glass fridge, chilled warehouse, and external loading bays, ensuring goods are transported safely, accurately, and on time.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate forklifts to check, transport, and unload goods safely and efficiently
  • Assist operatives with picking orders, stock rotation, and replenishment
  • Maintain cleanliness in the yard and warehouse to ensure a safe working environment
  • Comply with food hygiene and health & safety regulations
  • Assist with loading and unloading lorries when required

About You

  • Valid Counterbalance Forklift Licence (renewed within the last 3 years)
  • Experience operating forklifts in a warehouse or similar environment
  • Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication
  • Positive attitude, reliable, and able to work flexibly to meet deadlines
  • Numeracy skills and an understanding of health & safety best practices
  • Experience in dairy or food production is desirable but not essential

Applicants will be asked to upload their Forklift Licence as part of the application process.

Additional Information

Manual handling is required, and strict hygiene rules apply.
Only one solid wedding band is permitted; no earrings, studs, bracelets, necklaces, makeup, strong perfumes, or deodorants in production areas.
Due to shift times, reliable transport to Tewkesbury is required.

Progression Opportunities

We invest in the growth of our people through on‑site training, refresher forklift courses, PPT training, NVQs, and the Cotteswold Academy development programme. Career pathways include roles such as Team Leader and Supervisor.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary with opportunities for career progression
  • 22 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, increasing after 3 years of service
  • Refer‑a‑friend bonus scheme (up to ÂŁ500)
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounted products and delivery options
  • Aviva pension scheme (4% employee, 4.5% employer contributions)
  • Health and wellbeing support through Simply Health

About Cotteswold Dairy

Since 1938, Cotteswold Dairy has flourished from a modest milk round—delivering just 30 gallons a day using a bucket and ladle—into one of the UK’s most respected independent, family‑run dairies, rooted in Tewkesbury. Built on the founding values of quality, service, and cleanliness, the business has remained committed to those principles spanning three generations, now under the leadership of Managing Director George Workman.
Today, we process, pack, and deliver over 100 million litres of milk and dairy products each year to doorstep customers and businesses across England and Wales, operating from multiple depots and a modern production site in Tewkesbury.
At our heart lies a strong ethical and environmental commitment. We partner with local farms within a 60‑mile radius—many Red Tractor‑certified—promoting sustainable farming practices, animal welfare, and minimal environmental impact. We’ve championed eco‑friendly initiatives for decades, including returnable glass bottles, electric milk floats, telematics for efficient logistics, and zero waste‑to‑landfill operations.
More than a business, Cotteswold Dairy is a values‑driven community dedicated to delivering wholesome, high‑quality dairy products while nurturing people, our communities, and our planet—making us a compelling and meaningful place to build your career.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Forklift Driver employer: Cotteswold Dairy

Cotteswold Dairy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises teamwork and employee development. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including a generous holiday allowance, and opportunities for career progression within a family-owned business, employees can thrive in a safe and innovative environment at our Tewkesbury Depot. Join us to be part of a trusted name in dairy distribution, where your contributions are valued and recognised.
Cotteswold Dairy

Contact Detail:

Cotteswold Dairy Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Forklift Driver

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific equipment used at Cotteswold Dairy, especially their latest electric trucks. Understanding the technology and safety features will not only boost your confidence but also show your enthusiasm for the role during any discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail in conversations or interviews. These traits are crucial for maintaining high standards of customer service and safety, which are key aspects of the job.

✨Tip Number 3

If you have experience in the dairy or food production sector, be sure to mention it! Even if it's not essential, relevant experience can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your understanding of the industry's hygiene regulations.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your flexibility regarding shift times. Since the role requires adaptability due to varying end times, showing that you're willing to accommodate the business's needs can make a positive impression on the hiring team.

We think you need these skills to ace Forklift Driver

Valid Counterbalance Forklift Licence
Strong organisational skills
Attention to detail
Positive attitude
Professional communication skills
Experience in manual handling
Knowledge of food hygiene regulations
Ability to operate electric forklifts
Flexibility in working hours
Teamwork and collaboration
Problem-solving skills
Time management skills
Safety-conscious mindset
Basic maintenance knowledge of forklifts

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise any previous experience you have with operating forklifts, especially if you hold a valid Counterbalance Forklift Licence. Mention any specific duties that relate to the role, such as transporting goods or maintaining safety standards.

Showcase Your Skills: In your application, highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail. These are key traits for the role. If you have experience in the dairy or food production sector, be sure to mention it, as it can set you apart from other candidates.

Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application requirements. Remember to upload your Forklift licence as part of the process. Ensure all documents are complete and formatted correctly before submission.

Express Your Enthusiasm: Convey your positive attitude and eagerness to join Cotteswold Dairy. Mention why you want to work for them specifically, perhaps referencing their commitment to team values and community support.

How to prepare for a job interview at Cotteswold Dairy

✨Showcase Your Forklift Skills

Make sure to highlight your experience with operating forklifts, especially if you have a valid Counterbalance Forklift Licence. Be prepared to discuss any specific models you've worked with and how you ensure safety and efficiency while driving.

✨Emphasise Attention to Detail

Since the role requires accuracy in transporting goods and adhering to hygiene standards, share examples from your past experiences where your attention to detail made a difference. This will demonstrate your suitability for maintaining high standards.

✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication Skills

Cotteswold Dairy values teamwork, so be ready to talk about how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with team leaders and other departments to ensure smooth operations.

✨Prepare for Questions on Flexibility

Given the varying shift times and the need for flexibility, think of examples that show your adaptability. Discuss how you've managed changing schedules in the past and your willingness to go the extra mile when needed.

Forklift Driver
Cotteswold Dairy
Location: East Kilbride
Go Premium

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>