At a Glance
- Tasks: Receive, unload, and manage stock while providing excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Lawsons, the UK's largest independent supplier of fencing and building materials.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension scheme, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and develop your career in a practical role.
- Qualifications: Experience in a yard or warehouse environment and a customer-focused attitude.
The predicted salary is between 31200 - 40000 £ per year.
About Lawsons
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 Whetstone branch. This is a practical, customer-facing role based in the branch yard, supporting daily operations to ensure safe handling, accurate stock management and excellent service for trade and retail customers. The successful candidate will be physically capable, dependable and able to work collaboratively with branch colleagues to maintain a safe and efficient yard environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive, unload and check deliveries of timber, fencing and building materials, verifying quantities and inspecting for damage.
- Store, stack and organise stock safely to preserve product integrity and enable efficient retrieval.
- Assist customers at the yard and by phone with product selection, loading and basic product advice, providing friendly and professional service at all times.
- Prepare and load customer collections and delivery vehicles, ensuring loads are secured correctly and vehicle loading procedures are followed.
- Operate yard equipment such as forklifts, telehandlers or pallet trucks when trained and authorised, and report any defects or maintenance needs promptly.
- Maintain daily yard housekeeping, keeping work areas tidy and safe and removing waste or obstructions as required.
- Support branch colleagues with stock counts, replenishment and general yard duties to help meet branch targets and customer commitments.
- Comply with company policies and legal requirements including health and safety, manual handling and vehicle loading regulations.
- Accurately record and report incidents, damaged stock or near misses in line with company procedures.
Person Specification
- Previous experience in a yard operative, warehouse or builders’ merchants environment (essential).
- Capable of undertaking physically demanding tasks, including lifting, carrying and working outdoors in all weathers.
- Basic numeracy and literacy with the ability to follow instructions and complete simple paperwork accurately.
- Good communication skills and a helpful, customer-focused attitude.
- Team player who works well with colleagues across the branch including telesales, transport and management teams.
- Reliable, punctual and flexible with a willingness to work overtime or alternate Saturdays when required.
- Basic IT awareness to support use of handheld devices or branch systems for order checking (desirable).
- Valid UK driving licence desirable; forklift or telehandler certification advantageous but training can be provided for the right candidate.
- Commitment to safe working practices and continuous improvement.
Working Hours, Salary and Benefits
- Full-time, permanent position based at our Whetstone branch.
- Typical hours Monday to Friday 07.30 - 17.00, with 1 in 2 Saturdays working 08.00 - 12.00; the specific shift pattern will be confirmed by the branch.
- Competitive salary - £30,175
- 25 days holiday per year 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.
- Comprehensive induction, ongoing training and genuine progression opportunities within Lawsons.
Why Join Lawsons?
- Be part of a well-established, family-owned company with a strong local reputation.
- Work in a supportive, team-focused environment where practical skills and customer service are valued.
- Develop your career through structured training and clear progression pathways across our branch network.
- Play an important role in delivering outstanding service to trade and retail customers in Whetstone and the surrounding area.
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are reliable, hardworking and enjoy practical work in a fast-paced yard environment, we would like to hear from you.
Yard Operative in London 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 London
✨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 London
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.
