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- 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.
Lawsons
, the UK\’s leading independent supplier of timber, fencing, and building materials, has an exciting opportunity for a Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief to join our Rudgwick branch. If you enjoy practical outdoor work, are safety conscious, and take pride in delivering excellent customer service, we\’d welcome your application to become part of our committed team.
Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief – Rudgwick
As a Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief at AVS Rudgwick, you will help ensure the smooth operation of the branch by supporting yard duties and providing flexible van driving cover when required. This varied role combines hands-on handling of timber and building materials with occasional local deliveries, so a practical, safety-first approach and good customer skills are essential. You will work closely with colleagues to maintain an organised yard and deliver a reliable service to our customers.
Main Responsibilities – Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief
- Safely load and unload timber, fencing, and building supplies to customer and company vehicles, following manual handling best practice.
- Deliver materials to local customers when acting as van driver relief, ensuring goods are secure and delivered on time with a professional, customer-focused manner.
- Keep the yard tidy, well organised and compliant with Health & Safety requirements, including risk assessments and site procedures.
- Assist customers at the counter and in the yard by locating, retrieving and advising on products in a friendly and respectful way.
- Carry out stock checks and support inventory management, reporting discrepancies to the branch manager.
- Operate forklifts and other handling equipment safely.
- Report any safety issues or near misses promptly and contribute to a proactive safety culture across the branch.
- Work collaboratively with the team to provide flexible cover and maintain high service standards during busy periods or staff absence.
Essential Skills, Qualities & Experience
- Previous experience in a yard, builders\’ merchant, warehouse or similar practical role is essential.
- A Full UK Driving Licence is essential for van driving duties; a clean driving record is preferred.
- Valid forklift certificate is also essential.
- Physically fit and able to carry out manual handling, lifting and moving of materials safely in all weather conditions.
- Strong awareness of Health & Safety practices and willingness to follow site procedures at all times.
- Customer-focused, dependable and punctual, with good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
- Flexible approach to duties and working patterns to provide van cover and support branch operations as needed.
Working Hours, Pay and Benefits –
- Full-time, permanent role with flexibility for relief driving duties.
- Salary between £29,000 – £29,500, depending on experience.
- Working hours are between 07:00 and 18:00, including alternate Saturday mornings (08:00–12:00)
- Competitive salary dependent on experience and responsibilities.
- Generous holiday entitlement: 25 days\’ annual leave plus 8
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.
