Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Yard Operative, handling timber and building materials daily.
- Company: AVS is a leading supplier in the UK, with over 100 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, training, and exclusive staff perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team, making a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role and a valid forklift certificate are essential.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for career progression and skills development.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 29000 £ per year.
Overview
Yard Operative role at AVS Rudgwick, part of the Lawsons Group. This is a hands-on position in a busy yard, suitable for individuals who enjoy practical, active work and delivering outstanding service to colleagues and customers.
Location: Brookside Rural Park, Church St, Rudgwick, Horsham, RH12 3AU.
Working Hours: This is a full-time, permanent role. Typical pattern: Monday to Friday 07:30 – 17:00 with alternate Saturday mornings 08:00 – 12:00, to support branch operations.
Company: AVS, part of the Lawsons Group, a leading UK supplier of fencing, timber, and builders’ materials since 1921 with 35 branches and over 700 employees. We deliver quality products and exceptional service throughout London and the South East.
Responsibilities
- Safely loading, unloading, and moving timber, fencing, and building materials using manual handling techniques and equipment.
- Picking orders accurately for customer collections and deliveries to maintain efficiency and reliability.
- Storing goods logically and securely; keeping the yard organised and compliant with health and safety regulations.
- Assisting with monthly stock checks and reporting shortages or damages promptly.
- Delivering excellent customer service to visitors, drivers, and colleagues in the yard.
- Supporting incoming goods-in processes and assisting delivery drivers with loading customer vehicles as required.
- Contributing to best practice in health, safety, and environmental procedures at all times.
- Maintaining a proactive, positive attitude and collaborating as part of the branch team.
Experience, Skills & Requirements – Yard Operative Essentials
- Previous experience in a builders’ merchant, warehouse, yard, or similar environment is essential.
- A valid forklift certificate is essential.
- Confident with manual handling and able to carry out physically demanding tasks safely (within health and safety guidelines).
- Basic numeracy and literacy; able to follow written instructions and complete records accurately.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills; willing to assist customers courteously and professionally.
- Good attention to detail; ensuring orders are picked, loaded, and despatched correctly every time.
- Reliable, proactive, and adaptable – able to multi-task in a busy, outdoor working environment.
Seniority level
- Entry level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Other
- Industries: Building Materials
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd by 2x.
Get notified about new Yard Operative jobs in Horsham, England, United Kingdom.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Yard Operative employer: Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
Contact Detail:
Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the products and services offered by AVS. Understanding the types of timber, fencing, and building materials they supply will help you engage more effectively during your interactions with the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in a similar environment when networking or speaking to current employees. This can help you build rapport and demonstrate your understanding of the role's demands.
✨Tip Number 3
If you have a forklift certificate, make sure to mention it in conversations or during interviews. This is a key requirement for the Yard Operative role and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Show enthusiasm for teamwork and customer service. The role requires collaboration and a positive attitude, so be prepared to discuss how you've successfully worked in teams and provided excellent service in past roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Yard Operative position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that match what AVS is looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in a builders' merchant, warehouse, or similar environment. Mention specific tasks you've performed that relate to the daily duties outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to include your valid forklift certificate and any other relevant qualifications. Highlight your manual handling skills and ability to work in a physically demanding role, as these are essential for the position.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your proactive attitude and teamwork skills will contribute to the positive culture at AVS Rudgwick.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
✨Show Your Practical Skills
Since the Yard Operative role is hands-on, be prepared to discuss your previous experience in similar environments. Highlight any practical skills you have, especially those related to manual handling and using mechanical equipment.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Health and safety are crucial in this role. Be ready to talk about how you prioritise safety in your work. Mention any relevant training or certifications, such as a forklift certificate, to demonstrate your commitment to safe practices.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication
This position requires strong teamwork and communication skills. Share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before, and how you’ve provided excellent customer service in past roles.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
At the end of the interview, you’ll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, training opportunities, and what a typical day looks like for a Yard Operative to show your genuine interest in the role.
