At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the yard operations by handling stock and assisting customers in a busy environment.
- Company: Join Lawsons, the UK's largest independent supplier of fencing and building materials.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, holiday perks, pension scheme, and industry-leading training opportunities.
- Other info: Great career progression and a commitment to colleague wellbeing.
- Why this job: Work outdoors, develop skills, and be part of a supportive team culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in yard or customer service roles; forklift experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30175 - 30175 £ per year.
Lawsons is proud to be the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, with over 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we continue to grow by building lasting relationships with customers and cultivating a supportive team culture. We are recruiting a Yard Operative to join our Coulsdon branch and support the safe and efficient running of the yard, stock handling and customer service operations.
Role Overview
This is a hands-on yard role for a reliable and safety-conscious individual who enjoys working outdoors and as part of a busy branch team. The successful candidate will assist with the receipt, storage, picking and loading of fencing, timber, landscaping and building materials, while helping to maintain a safe, organised and customer-focused yard environment.
Working Hours
Full-time, permanent position based at our Coulsdon branch. Working hours will be 07.30 - 17.00 and 1 in 2 Saturday mornings working 08.00 - 12.00. Flexibility for early starts, busy periods and changing operational requirements is essential.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive deliveries of fencing, timber, landscaping and building materials, checking quantities and condition against delivery documentation.
- Pick, prepare and load customer orders accurately and safely.
- Assist customers with the collection and loading of products, providing helpful and professional service at all times.
- Move and handle heavy and bulky materials using safe manual handling techniques and appropriate equipment.
- Operate yard equipment and machinery in accordance with training, manufacturer guidance and company procedures.
- Maintain accurate stock locations and report shortages, damages or discrepancies to the branch management team.
- Keep the yard, loading areas and storage facilities clean, tidy and well organised.
- Support vehicle loading and delivery preparation, ensuring materials are secured safely where required.
- Follow all relevant health & safety, manual handling, environmental and company policies and procedures.
- Report hazards, incidents, damaged goods and equipment defects promptly.
- Work closely with branch colleagues, drivers and customers to ensure orders are fulfilled efficiently.
- Undertake other reasonable yard and branch duties as required.
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience in a yard, warehouse, builders’ merchant, distribution or customer service environment is essential.
- Experience handling timber, fencing, landscaping products or building materials is advantageous.
- Good understanding of safe manual handling and the ability to work safely with heavy and bulky products.
- Forklift or other relevant machinery experience is desirable; training may be provided for the right candidate.
- Physically fit and able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Reliable, punctual and willing to work as part of a busy team.
- Good attention to detail when picking orders, checking deliveries and maintaining stock.
- Good communication skills and a customer-focused attitude.
- Positive approach to health & safety, with a commitment to reporting hazards and following safe working practices.
- Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks and maintain high standards during busy periods.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary £30,175.
- 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays and an additional celebration day, rising with service in line with company policy.
- Company pension scheme and Death in Service cover.
- Employee Assistance Programme and access to Online GP services.
- Industry-leading training and development opportunities and genuine progression prospects within Lawsons.
Why Join Lawsons Coulsdon?
- Join the UK’s leading independent merchant for fencing, timber and building materials.
- Work in a supportive, team-focused branch environment.
- Play an important role in keeping the yard organised and supporting excellent service to trade and retail customers.
- Build product knowledge and develop your career through structured training and ongoing support.
- Benefit from a company committed to colleague wellbeing, safety and development.
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are a reliable and hardworking Yard Operative who takes pride in working safely, supporting customers and maintaining high standards, we would like to hear from you.
Yard Operative in Coulsdon employer: Lawsons
Lawsons is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture where practical skills and reliable service are highly valued. As a Yard Operative / Van Driver at our Peterborough branch, you'll enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive training, and opportunities for career progression within a respected company that prioritises safety and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative in Coulsdon
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative in Coulsdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Lawsons's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Lawsons. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Lawsons.
