At a Glance
- Tasks: Support yard operations, handle goods safely, and deliver top-notch customer service.
- Company: Join Lawsons, the UK's largest independent fencing and builders’ merchants.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension scheme, and employee rewards.
- Other info: Enjoy on-the-job training and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a respected company and make a real impact in a team-focused environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in yard operations or warehouse work; forklift licence is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30175 - 30175 £ per year.
About Lawsons
Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent fencing, timber and builders’ merchants. Founded in 1921, we operate across London and the South East with 35 branches, over 700 employees and a turnover of £165 million. We pride ourselves on delivering high quality products and exceptional service to both trade and retail customers.
Position Overview
We are recruiting for a Yard Operative to be based at The Landscape Centre. This is a permanent, full-time position. This practical, hands‑on role is responsible for supporting yard operations, ensuring goods are handled safely and efficiently, and delivering excellent customer service to trade and retail customers. The successful candidate will work closely with branch colleagues to maintain yard standards, assist with loading and unloading, and support order fulfilment and general yard duties.
Working Hours
This is a full‑time, permanent position. Typical hours are Monday to Friday 07:30–17:00, plus 1 in 2 Saturdays 08:00–12:00.
Benefits for the Successful Candidate
- Competitive salary dependent on experience (£30,175)
- 25 days holiday pro rata plus 8 Bank Holidays and 1 celebration day.
- Company pension scheme and Death In Service cover.
- Employee Assistance Programme and My Reward benefits including online GP access.
- On-the-job training and development opportunities within a well-established employer.
Main Responsibilities
- Receive, unload and load deliveries safely and efficiently, checking items against paperwork and reporting discrepancies.
- Store and stack materials correctly, maintaining tidy, safe and accessible yard areas.
- Prepare customer orders for collection or delivery, ensuring accuracy and appropriate packaging or securing of loads.
- Operate yard machinery and equipment (e.g. forklift, telehandler) where qualified, following all safety procedures and company guidelines.
- Assist customers at the yard and support counter colleagues with enquiries and collections when required.
- Carry out routine yard checks, basic maintenance and housekeeping tasks to uphold health and safety standards.
- Accurately complete delivery notes, goods received records and other required paperwork in line with company procedures.
- Report stock variances, damaged goods and customer feedback to branch management promptly.
- Adhere to company policies, health and safety regulations and safe systems of work at all times.
Qualifications and Skills
- Previous experience in a yard operative, warehouse or builders’ merchant environment is essential.
- Valid forklift or telehandler licence advantageous; training can be provided for the right candidate.
- Good practical skills, physically fit and able to handle manual lifting in line with safe lifting practices.
- Basic numeracy and the ability to complete accurate paperwork.
- Reliable, punctual and able to work well within a team in a busy environment.
- Good communication skills and a customer‐focused approach.
- Flexible attitude with willingness to assist with additional duties such as local deliveries or vehicle loading when required.
- Valid UK driving licence desirable.
Why You Should Consider Joining Us
- Join a respected, long-established company with strong regional presence and commitment to colleague development.
- Work in a supportive, team-focused environment with clear lines of supervision and on-the-job training.
- Play a key role in ensuring smooth branch operations and delivering excellent service to trade and retail customers.
- Benefit from employee wellbeing support and an employee rewards package.
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Yard Operative Operations · The Landscape Centre - Chelmsford employer: Lawsons Ltd.
At Lawsons, we pride ourselves on being the UK's largest independent fencing, timber and builders' merchants, offering a supportive and team-focused work environment at The Landscape Centre in Chelmsford. As a Yard Operative, you'll enjoy competitive pay, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to our commitment to exceptional customer service and safety. Join us to be part of a respected company that values employee wellbeing and fosters growth within a dynamic industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative Operations · The Landscape Centre - Chelmsford
✨Get to Know Local Distribution Centres
Start hanging around local distribution centres and warehouses, like the ones that might belong to Lawsons Ltd.. Many times, they have sign-up sheets for job openings or even informal meet-ups that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Talk to Recruiters and Employment Agencies
There are loads of recruitment agencies that specifically focus on warehouse and logistics roles. Get in touch with them and let them know you’re looking for full-time work. They often have inside info on openings before they're advertised!
✨Brush Up on Your Skills
Think about the specific skills that are hot in the warehouse sector right now, like inventory management software or health and safety protocols. We can help you find resources to polish up your abilities, which can make you stand out when you're looking at those full-time gigs.
✨Apply Directly Through Us!
Don't forget to keep an eye on our website for any full-time listings at Lawsons Ltd.. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in logistics and warehousing!
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative Operations · The Landscape Centre - Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience with Inventory Management:When you're whipping up your CV, make sure to spotlight any experience you've got in inventory management or warehousing. We love to see proficiency in stock control systems or previous roles where you've managed inventory levels. Show us how you can keep things organised and running smoothly!
Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail:In the warehouse and logistics field, attention to detail is key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you've caught mistakes or streamlined processes in the past. Let us know how your precision can contribute to our team at Lawsons Ltd..
Get Familiar with Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to warehousing or logistics—like health and safety or forklift operation—make sure they shine on your CV! We appreciate all the qualifications that show you're serious about the role and keeping a safe, efficient workspace.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:Logistics can be unpredictable, so if you've tackled any significant challenges in previous positions, tell us all about it! Use your cover letter to highlight how you've adapted to situations, such as changes in supply or unexpected delays. We want to see your resourcefulness in action for this full-time role at Lawsons Ltd..
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons Ltd.
✨Know Your Warehouse Systems
Familiarise yourself with popular warehouse management systems like SAP or Oracle. If you have experience using these or similar tools, be prepared to discuss how you utilised them to improve efficiency or accuracy in inventory management.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
In the logistics arena, unexpected challenges pop up all the time. Be ready to share some examples of when you faced a logistical hiccup and how you tackled it. This shows you can think on your feet and keep things running smoothly.
✨Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Since it’s a full-time position, expect questions about your ability to work in a team in a busy warehousing environment. Share experiences where you collaborated with others, maybe to meet tight deadlines or manage large shipments, ensuring you showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
✨Safety First! Talk About Protocols
Logistics roles require a real understanding of safety protocols. Brush up on basic safety guidelines and be ready to discuss how you’ve implemented or adhered to these in past roles. This shows that you’re serious about your role in maintaining a safe working environment.
