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, and exclusive staff perks in a supportive environment.
- Other info: Full-time hours with opportunities for training and career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team, making a real impact on customer service and safety.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role and a valid forklift certificate are essential.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 35000 £ 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: Monday to Friday 07:30 – 17:00 with every other Saturday morning 08:00 – 12:00.
Employee Benefits
- Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£30,175)
- 25 days’ holiday plus UK bank holidays and an additional celebration day
- Pension scheme, death in service benefit, and employee assistance programme
- Access to the “My Reward” platform including online GP access and wellbeing support
- Comprehensive onboarding and ongoing training with opportunities for career development
- Supportive, team‑oriented culture within a leading independent supplier
Main Responsibilities
- Load and unload materials safely and efficiently, using correct manual handling techniques and mechanical aids where provided.
- Prepare customer orders for collection and assist with customer collections at the yard, ensuring accuracy and a professional service.
- Support delivery drivers when required, including assisting with vehicle loading, securing loads and completing relevant paperwork.
- Maintain yard presentation and housekeeping, ensuring stock is stored safely, labelled and accessible.
- Operate yard equipment (e.g. forklift, telehandler) if trained and authorised, following all safety procedures and site rules.
- Carry out routine checks on stock and report shortages, damage or discrepancies to the supervisor.
- Report and record any incidents, near misses or hazards in line with company procedures and promote safe working practices.
- Assist with basic inventory tasks, stock rotation and yard reorganisations as directed by the branch manager.
- Work collaboratively with branch colleagues to support ad‑hoc tasks during quieter periods to ensure smooth branch operation.
Qualifications And Skills
- Previous yard, warehouse or manual handling experience desirable, preferably within builders’ merchants, timber, landscaping or related sectors.
- Good practical skills, physically capable of handling materials and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Basic numeracy and IT literacy, comfortable using handheld devices and company systems where required.
- Strong team orientation with good communication skills and a customer‑focused approach.
- Organised, reliable and able to work with minimal supervision while following health and safety and company procedures.
- Willingness to undertake training and obtain relevant licences/certificates (e.g. forklift/telehandler) where required.
- Full UK driving licence desirable but not essential.
Why Join Lawsons
- Be part of a well‑established and respected company with excellent career development opportunities.
- Work in a varied and rewarding role with direct impact on branch performance and customer satisfaction.
- Access to company benefits including pension, employee assistance programme and training opportunities.
- 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.
Yard Operative employer: Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
AVS, part of the Lawsons Group, is an excellent employer that prides itself on a friendly and inclusive team culture, prioritising health, safety, and employee wellbeing. As a Yard Operative at our Rudgwick branch, you will benefit from comprehensive training, career progression opportunities, and a competitive salary, all while contributing to a century-old legacy in the timber and building materials industry. Join us to make a tangible difference in a supportive environment where your hard work and dedication are truly valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the types of timber and building materials commonly used in the industry. This knowledge will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
If you have a forklift certificate, make sure to highlight it during any discussions. If you don’t, consider obtaining one before applying, as it's essential for the Yard Operative position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. This is crucial for a position that relies heavily on working as part of a team.
✨Tip Number 4
Visit the AVS Rudgwick branch if possible, or engage with their social media. Understanding their operations and culture can give you valuable insights to discuss during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in a builders' merchant, warehouse, or yard environment. Emphasise any previous roles that involved manual handling, teamwork, and customer service.
Write a Strong Cover Letter:Craft a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the Yard Operative role. Mention your valid forklift certificate and any specific skills that align with the job description, such as attention to detail and safety practices.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, clearly outline your skills related to manual handling, communication, and teamwork. Provide examples of how you've successfully contributed to a team or maintained high operational standards in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
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 related to manual handling and using mechanical equipment.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Safety is paramount in this role. Be ready to talk about your understanding of health and safety regulations and any relevant certifications, like a forklift certificate. Demonstrating your commitment to safety will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication
This position requires strong teamwork and communication skills. Share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team and provided excellent customer service in past roles. This will show that you can contribute positively to their team culture.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Having questions ready shows your interest in the position. Ask about the daily responsibilities, training opportunities, or how the team ensures high operational standards. This not only helps you understand the role better but also demonstrates your enthusiasm.
