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- Tasks: Join us as a Yard Operative, loading, unloading, and preparing customer orders in a dynamic outdoor setting.
- Company: Lawsons Group is the UK's largest independent supplier of fencing and building materials since 1921.
- Benefits: Enjoy a salary of £29,000 - £31,000, 25 days holiday, and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team where your contributions matter and career growth is encouraged.
- Qualifications: Previous experience as a Yard Operative is essential; forklift licence is a plus but training is available.
- Other info: Work full-time, Monday to Friday, with alternate Saturdays, in a safety-focused and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 31000 £ per year.
About Us
Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, we operate across London and the South East of England with over 35 branches, more than 700 employees and a turnover of £165 million. We are committed to delivering high quality products and exceptional service to both trade and retail customers.
Role Overview
We are recruiting a Yard Operative to join our Havant branch. This is an operational, hands‑on role responsible for supporting yard and branch activities, ensuring materials are handled safely and efficiently, assisting customers and drivers, and maintaining a clean, organised and compliant yard environment.
Working hours
Full time, permanent position. Typical hours will be Monday to Friday 07.30 – 17.00 with 1 in 2 Saturday mornings 08:00 – 12:00.
Employee Benefits
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Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£29,000)
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25 days’ holiday plus UK Bank Holidays and an additional celebration day
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Pension scheme, Death in Service benefit, and Employee Assistance Programme
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Access to the “My Reward” platform including Online GP Access and wellbeing support
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Comprehensive onboarding and ongoing training with opportunities for career development
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Supportive, team‑oriented culture within a leading independent supplier
Main Responsibilities
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Load and unload materials safely and efficiently, using correct manual handling techniques and mechanical aids where provided.
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Prepare customer orders for collection and assist with customer collections at the yard, ensuring accuracy and a professional service.
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Support delivery drivers when required, including assisting with vehicle loading, securing loads and completing relevant paperwork.
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Maintain yard presentation and housekeeping, ensuring stock is stored safely, labelled and accessible.
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Operate yard equipment (e.g. forklift, telehandler) if trained and authorised, following all safety procedures and site rules.
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Carry out routine checks on stock and report shortages, damage or discrepancies to the supervisor.
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Report and record any incidents, near misses or hazards in line with company procedures and promote safe working practices.
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Assist with basic inventory tasks, stock rotation and yard reorganisations as directed by the branch manager.
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Work collaboratively with branch colleagues to support ad‑hoc tasks during quieter periods to ensure smooth branch operation.
Qualifications and Skills
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Previous yard, warehouse or manual handling experience desirable, preferably within builders’ merchants, timber, landscaping or related sectors.
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Good practical skills, physically capable of handling materials and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
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Basic numeracy and IT literacy, comfortable using handheld devices and company systems where required.
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Strong team orientation with good communication skills and a customer‑focused approach.
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Organised, reliable and able to work with minimal supervision while following health and safety and company procedures.
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Willingness to undertake training and obtain relevant licences/certificates (e.g. forklift/telehandler) where required.
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Full UK driving licence desirable but not essential.
Why Join Lawsons?
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Be part of a well‑established and respected company with excellent career development opportunities.
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Work in a varied and rewarding role with direct impact on branch performance and customer satisfaction.
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Access to company benefits including pension, employee assistance programme and training opportunities.
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A supportive team environment where your contribution is recognised and valued.
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are practical, reliable and enjoy working in a busy yard environment, we would like to hear from you. #MP
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Yard Operative Operations · Havant employer: Lawsons Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Lawsons Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative Operations · Havant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific materials and products that Lawsons Group supplies. Understanding timber, fencing, and building materials will not only help you in the role but also impress during any discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in a yard or outdoor environment. Be ready to discuss how your past roles have prepared you for the hands-on nature of this position, especially regarding safety and teamwork.
✨Tip Number 3
If you have a forklift licence, make sure to mention it! If not, express your willingness to obtain one. This shows your commitment to the role and your eagerness to learn and grow within the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to demonstrate your communication skills during the interview. Being able to effectively communicate with colleagues and customers is crucial in this role, so think of examples where you've successfully worked as part of a team.
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative Operations · Havant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Yard Operative position. Understand the responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience as a Yard Operative or in similar roles. Mention specific tasks you've performed that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Clearly outline your skills that are relevant to the role, such as teamwork, attention to detail, and safety awareness. If you have a forklift licence or experience with manual handling, be sure to include this information.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you want to work at Lawsons Group and how you can contribute to their team and values.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons Ltd.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Outdoor Work
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working outdoors and in a busy environment. Talk about any previous experiences that highlight your enjoyment of hands-on roles, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Highlight Safety Awareness
Since safety is a key aspect of the Yard Operative role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of health and safety practices. Share examples of how you've prioritised safety in past jobs, especially when handling materials or operating machinery.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
The role requires collaboration with colleagues, so be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully worked in a team. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and support others to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions related to the specific tasks of a Yard Operative, such as loading and unloading materials or managing stock. Brush up on relevant terminology and processes, and be ready to discuss how you would handle various scenarios in the yard.
