At a Glance
- Tasks: Safely operate a forklift to move and manage stock in a vibrant garden centre.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a thriving outdoor retail environment.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hands-on experience, and a fun work atmosphere.
- Other info: Enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor work with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Get outdoors, work with plants, and support customers while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Valid FLT Counterbalance Licence and experience in a fast-paced setting.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 € per year.
The FLT Counterbalance Driver is responsible for safely operating a forklift truck to move, load, and unload stock within the garden centre. This includes handling plants, compost, garden furniture, and other outdoor goods while ensuring stock is stored correctly and presented neatly for customers.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate a Counterbalance Forklift Truck (FLT) safely and efficiently
- Load and unload vehicles, deliveries, and supplier shipments
- Move stock across the yard, warehouse, and retail shop floor
- Handle a variety of goods including plants, compost, pots, and garden furniture
- Carry out stock control, stock rotation, and replenishment
- Check deliveries against paperwork and report shortages or damages
- Store stock safely to prevent damage, particularly fragile or seasonal items
- Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment
- Complete daily FLT checks and basic maintenance reporting
- Support customers with loading bulky items into vehicles
- Assist with general warehouse and garden centre duties
Skills & Experience
- Valid FLT Counterbalance Licence (RTITB, ITSSAR or equivalent)
- Experience as a Forklift Driver, FLT Driver, Warehouse Operative or Yard Operative
- Strong understanding of health & safety and manual handling procedures
- Experience with loading, unloading, and stock movement
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment
- Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling tasks
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Basic numeracy and literacy for stock checks and paperwork
Desirable Experience
- Previous experience within a garden centre, horticulture, or outdoor retail environment
- Knowledge of plants, gardening products, or seasonal stock
- Customer service experience
Working Hours & Environment
- Outdoor and indoor working environment
- Weekend work and peak seasonal demand (spring/summer)
- Manual handling and lifting required
Reporting To
- Yard Supervisor
FLT Counterbalance Driver / Forklift Driver employer: Gill Cooke Personnel Ltd T/A The Recruitment Group
Join our vibrant garden centre team as an FLT Counterbalance Driver, where you will enjoy a supportive work culture that values safety and teamwork. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work in a dynamic outdoor environment surrounded by nature's beauty. With a focus on employee development and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we provide a rewarding workplace for those passionate about horticulture and retail.
Contact Detail:
Gill Cooke Personnel Ltd T/A The Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FLT Counterbalance Driver / Forklift Driver
✨Tip Number 1
Get your hands dirty! If you can, visit the garden centre and chat with the staff. Show them you're keen and ask about their experiences. This personal touch can make you stand out when they see your application.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with people in the industry on LinkedIn or local community groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your skills! When you get that interview, be prepared to talk about your FLT experience and how you handle stock. Bring examples of how you've kept things organised and safe in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows you're serious about joining our team and makes it easier for us to find you in the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace FLT Counterbalance Driver / Forklift Driver
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your FLT Skills:Make sure to highlight your valid FLT Counterbalance Licence and any relevant experience you have as a Forklift Driver. We want to see that you know your stuff when it comes to safely operating a forklift and handling stock.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take a moment to tailor your CV and cover letter to the job description. Mention your experience with loading, unloading, and stock movement, especially in a garden centre or similar environment.
Safety First!:Since health and safety is key in this role, make sure to mention your understanding of health & safety procedures and manual handling. We love candidates who prioritise safety while working in a fast-paced environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gill Cooke Personnel Ltd T/A The Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Forklift Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the specific model of the Counterbalance Forklift Truck you'll be operating. Brush up on safety protocols and maintenance checks, as they might ask you about these during the interview.
✨Show Off Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous roles as a Forklift Driver or Warehouse Operative. Highlight any experience you have with stock control, loading, and unloading, especially in a garden centre or similar environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is key in this role, think of examples where you’ve successfully worked with others. Whether it’s helping customers load items or collaborating with colleagues, showing that you can work well in a team will impress them.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about handling different types of goods, especially fragile items like plants. They might also ask how you would manage stock rotation or deal with delivery discrepancies, so have some scenarios ready to discuss.
