At a Glance
- Tasks: Load and unload materials, assist customers, and maintain a clean yard environment.
- Company: Join Lawsons, the UK's largest independent supplier of fencing and building materials.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension scheme, and employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with training and growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Qualifications: Previous yard or warehouse experience and good communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30175 - 30175 £ 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 will be Monday to Friday 07.30 - 17.00 with 1 in 2 Saturday mornings 08:00 - 12:00.
Employee Benefits
- Competitive salary (£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 essential, 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
Lawsons is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and team-oriented culture where your contributions are recognised and valued. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ample opportunities for career development, working as a Yard Operative at our Havant branch allows you to thrive in a dynamic environment while making a direct impact on customer satisfaction and branch performance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative
✨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
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.
