At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate forklifts, manage stock, and keep the yard organised in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Watts Farms, a family-run business passionate about fresh produce and quality service.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 20% staff discount, 31 days holiday, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the agricultural industry.
- Qualifications: Valid forklift licence and experience in a similar role required.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 14 £ per hour.
Location: Hill Farm, Farningham Hill Road, Farningham, Kent, DA4 0JR
Salary: £13.50 - £14.50 per hour - DOE
Are you a skilled Forklift Driver looking for a hands-on role in a fast-paced environment? We are seeking a reliable and proactive individual to support our farm yard and packhouse operations, ensuring smooth despatch and loading, waste management, and site cleanliness.
What does the job involve?
The Forklift and Yard Operative will be responsible for loading and unloading goods at our farm yard, including fresh produce, packaging, and materials. You will also be required to complete general yard duties.
Responsibilities include:
- Safely operating a forklift to load and unload goods, including fresh produce and packaging.
- Maintaining yard cleanliness and organisation, ensuring waste materials are baled and compacted.
- Overseeing stock rotation and product handling to meet customer specifications.
- Supporting site operations by vacuum cooling products and managing incoming deliveries.
- Ensuring compliance with Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations.
- Maintaining equipment, completing pre-work checks and necessary records.
- Covering the Yard Supervisor's duties during days off and holidays.
What we're looking for:
- Valid forklift licence and experience in a similar role is essential.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to keep the yard running smoothly.
- Physical stamina with a good level of self-motivation.
- Experience of operating balers, compactors, and handling stock rotation.
- Team player with good leadership skills and a hands-on approach.
- Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards.
Working Hours:
You will work 48 hours per week, working 5 shifts out of 7 on a rota basis (including weekends). Shifts will be scheduled between the hours of 07:00-21:00 and will be confirmed on a rota basis. A degree of flexibility will be required.
About Us:
Watts Farms is a third generation family run business. We grow fresh produce, which is picked and packed on site, with our head office based in Farningham, Kent. Our production sites are based in Kent & Essex and include organic land, polytunnels and modern glasshouses. We are specialist growers, who over the years have developed both growing techniques and varieties to provide our customers with the best quality and flavour. We pride ourselves on quality and service and are passionate about food and ensuring we provide a first-class service to our customers. We meet the requirements of the BRC standard for Food Safety.
What we can offer you:
- 20% staff discount on our online shop - shop.wattsfarms.co.uk
- 31 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays pro rata)
- Payment reward for friend referrals
- Development & Training Opportunities
We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment. Please note: Employment checks will include Drugs & Alcohol test.
Forklift & Yard Operative employer: Job Search Place Limited
Watts Farms is an excellent employer that values its employees by offering a supportive work culture and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Located in the picturesque Kent countryside, we provide a hands-on role as a Forklift and Yard Operative, where you can thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying benefits such as a generous staff discount, 31 days of holiday, and development training to enhance your skills. Join our family-run business and be part of a team that is passionate about quality and service in the fresh produce industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forklift & Yard Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Watts Farms. Understand their values, products, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Brush up on your forklift skills and be ready to demonstrate your expertise. If you can, find a way to showcase your experience with stock rotation and yard management during the interview. We want to see you in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! During the interview, don’t just wait for questions. Bring up your ideas on how to maintain yard cleanliness and improve operations. Show us that you’re not just a follower but someone who can lead and innovate.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in the interviewer's mind. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for the Forklift & Yard Operative position.
We think you need these skills to ace Forklift & Yard Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your forklift experience and any relevant certifications in your application. We want to see that you’ve got the skills to handle the job safely and efficiently!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to read through the job description and match your experience with what we’re looking for. Personalising your application shows us you’re genuinely interested in the role.
Keep It Neat and Professional:A tidy application goes a long way! Use clear formatting and check for any spelling or grammar mistakes. We appreciate attention to detail, especially in a role that requires high standards.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Forklift Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your forklift knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with different types of forklifts and any specific safety protocols you've followed. This shows you're not just a driver, but someone who understands the importance of safety and efficiency in the yard.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves maintaining yard cleanliness and stock rotation, think of examples from your past where you successfully managed these tasks. Prepare to explain how you keep things organised and efficient, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach to the job.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios. For instance, they might ask how you'd handle a situation where stock is misplaced or how you would ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Practising these scenarios can help you respond confidently.
✨Highlight Your Team Player Attitude
This role requires a hands-on approach and teamwork, so be prepared to share experiences where you worked effectively within a team. Discuss how you’ve supported colleagues in the past, especially during busy periods, to show that you’re a reliable team player.