At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in daily operations at a busy timber and builders merchant yard.
- Company: Join Howarth Timber Group, a top-rated workplace with over 185 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, cycle to work scheme, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Work outdoors, embrace physical challenges, and enjoy career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team and contribute to high-quality customer service.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; full training provided for enthusiastic candidates.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 £ per hour.
Location: Malton
Salary: National Minimum Wage
Closing Date: 17/07/2026
Join our team as a Yard Operative at Malton! We’re seeking a Yard Operative on a 6 month contract who is energetic, detail-orientated, and committed to quality. If you thrive in a hands-on, mainly outdoor setting and take pride in upholding high standards for our valued customers, this role is ideal for you. Join a friendly team that values excellence and teamwork!
Putting people at the heart of what we do, with more than 185 years’ trading experience, the Howarth Timber Group has grown to provide not only the widest range of products, but expertise, service and knowledge you can rely on. With a nationwide network of branches supplying timber, building and plumbing and heating materials, kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms and a dedicated manufacturing division supplying timber engineering services, the Howarth Timber Group is focused on providing market leading choice, quality, service and value.
What does it mean to be a Howarth Timber & Building Supplies Limited Yard Operative? Reporting to the Yard Supervisor, you will assist in the day-to-day operations of a busy timber and builders merchant yard, ensuring the branch yard department operates to a high standard of customer service, whilst operating as a part of a safe working environment.
Working Conditions: This role involves working outside for some of the time, in all weather conditions, including summer heat and cold and wet winter weather. You must be prepared to work in a physically demanding environment and be comfortable with manual labour. Appropriate PPE and workwear is provided.
Yard Operative role responsibilities include:
- Experience of working within a Timber/Builder’s Merchant is an advantage, although full training can be provided for the right applicant
- Warehouse and customer service experience
- FLT licence and experience
- Full manual driving licence (desirable)
You’ll be an enthusiastic, approachable and motivated person with a proactive and ‘can do’ attitude. You’ll also be team oriented with a strong sense of responsibility. You’ll need to be available to work full-time, Monday to Friday inclusive, plus alternate Saturday mornings (0800-1200).
What are the requirements to be a part of our team?
- Experience of working within a Timber/Builder’s Merchant is an advantage, although full training can be provided for the right applicant
- Warehouse and customer service experience
- Full manual driving licence (desirable)
Why choose Howarth Timber & Building Supplies for your next role? Howarth Timber Group is proud to have been officially recognised in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026!
Benefits include:
- 31 days’ holiday, inclusive of Statutory Bank Holidays
- Option to buy up to an additional 5 days’ annual leave per annum or sell up to 3 days’ annual leave per annum
- Length of service awards
- Cycle to work scheme
- Contributory pension scheme
- Company sick pay
- Enhanced paternity and maternity pay
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 helpline, counselling sessions, legal, debt and life management advice line)
- Benefits Hub (including discounts on gift cards, travel, cinema tickets, to name a few)
- Colleague Merchant Branch discount
- Opportunity to participate in a volunteering role for one working day per year – fully paid by the Company
- Excellent training and development and scope for career progression
Get in touch: Applicants should put their application in writing enclosing their CV to Andrew Goodwin, Branch Manager, by email to agoodwin@howarth-timber.co.uk
MALTON: Yard Operative – 6 month contract employer: Howarth Timber Group
Howarth Timber & Building Supplies is an exceptional employer, recognised in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026, offering a supportive and friendly work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. With benefits such as 31 days of holiday, a contributory pension scheme, and opportunities for career progression, our Malton location provides a dynamic environment where you can thrive while contributing to a team dedicated to quality and service excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land MALTON: Yard Operative – 6 month contract
✨Get Out There and Meet People
In the warehouse and logistics game, personal connections can land you the best temporary gigs. Join local job fairs or community events related to logistics, check out warehouses in your area, and even chat with staff about any openings. You never know when a quick chat might lead you to a golden opportunity!
✨Watch for Seasonal Hiring
Temporary roles in logistics often ramp up during peak seasons, like the holidays. Keep an eye on local inventory and warehouse operations during these times—many companies prefer to hire from a pool of candidates who have shown interest beforehand. Make sure you’re on their radar just as peak season approaches!
✨Get Your Hands Dirty with Local Agencies
Temp agencies focusing on warehouse and logistics can be a great way to land short-term gigs. Sign up with local agencies that specialise in this field; they often have exclusive contracts with companies needing temporary workers. You'll be on their books and ready to go when the right job pops up!
✨Check Out Howarth Timber Group Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards; apply directly through Howarth Timber Group's website. They might have temp positions listed there before they hit the broader job market. Show them you’re proactive and keen—get your application in and remind them you’re the right fit for their warehouse needs!
We think you need these skills to ace MALTON: Yard Operative – 6 month contract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:When applying for a temporary role in warehouse inventory logistics, emphasise any past experiences you’ve had in similar environments. We want to see specific examples of your skills in inventory management, stock control, or logistics operations. Think about any relevant roles, even if they were short-term or part-time!
Get Specific with Certifications:If you’ve completed any courses or certifications related to logistics or warehouse operations, make sure they’re front and centre on your CV. Certifications such as Forklift Operator or First Aid can give you an edge, so include them in your application to show you’re ready to jump in straight away!
Be Prepared for Flexibility:Since this is a temporary position, employers may look for candidates who can adapt quickly to changing schedules or tasks. In your cover letter, mention your willingness to be flexible with hours and tasks—this is a huge plus in the logistics field!
Apply Through Our Website:We often find that candidates who apply through our website have a smoother application process. So, take a few extra minutes to submit your application on our platform. It not only makes it easier for us to review, but it also shows your genuine interest in joining Howarth Timber Group. Plus, you might just stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Howarth Timber Group
✨Get Your Details Straight
For roles in warehouse and logistics, be prepared to discuss your familiarity with inventory management software and tools like SAP or WMS. Make sure you can talk about your previous experience handling inventory, as they might quiz you on how to manage stock levels or track shipments.
✨Show Off Your Flexibility
As this is a temporary role, employers at Howarth Timber Group will be looking for someone who can adapt quickly. Be ready to explain how you've dealt with sudden changes in work plans or taken on various responsibilities in past jobs. Flexibility can really set you apart!
✨Safety First, Always
You’ll likely encounter questions about health and safety regulations in a warehouse environment. Brush up on key safety protocols, like proper lifting techniques and equipment usage. Showing a commitment to safety will signal to Howarth Timber Group that you understand the importance of a secure work environment.
✨Talk Numbers and Performance
Prepare to discuss metrics that demonstrate your efficiency, such as order-picking rates or inventory accuracy. Since logistics roles are performance-driven, presenting a clear understanding of these metrics gives you an advantage and shows that you care about contributing to the team at Howarth Timber Group.
