Yard Operative in Aberdeen

Do you want to be a part of a forward-thinking team, challenging how things are done today to find improved solutions for tomorrow? Are you energetic and driven, with real hunger to progress?

The MDL brand is centred on a unique personality that shapes us in the development of our team and guides us on how we select who should be part of it. We live Ingenious Instinct by always being open-minded to ideas, whatever they are and whomever they come from. We encourage creativity and problem-solving, we challenge our team, our processes and our offering to customers, and we celebrate our successes.

We are hiring a Yard Operative to join our Assets & Operations Department.

About the Role

The Yard Operative will manage and maintain the day-to-day organisation, safety and efficiency of the MDL yard and storage areas, supporting equipment handling, logistics movements and overall facility operations at Gateway Cove and Peterhead Energy Service Base. The role will ensure all equipment, materials and assets are stored, handled and prepared in a controlled manner to support project delivery and asset readiness. In addition, the role will provide exposure to MDL cable handling operations, with a structured development pathway towards supporting and operating the MDL carousel equipment spread at Peterhead Energy Service Base.

Work Environment

Work is split between MDL’s Maritime House facility in Cove (Aberdeen) and Peterhead Energy Service Base (Peterhead), with travel as required to other MDL and client locations. The role is primarily yard-based, supporting equipment movements, logistics and storage activities, with future involvement in quayside and cable handling operations.

Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Operate forklifts, cherry pickers and associated lifting equipment to safely load, unload, move and organise MDL equipment, storage containers, generators and materials.
• Maintain a safe, clean and organised yard environment, ensuring clear access, appropriate storage and segregation of assets.
• Manage day-to-day yard logistics, including coordinating equipment movements, deliveries and loadouts in line with operational requirements.
• Support mobilisation and demobilisation activities, including preparation of equipment, loadout checks and documentation.
• Carry out routine visual inspections of equipment in the yard, identifying damage, corrosion or defects and reporting to the Asset or Operations team.
• Assist with basic maintenance, preservation and storage activities to support asset condition and readiness.
• Work closely with Asset, Workshop and Project teams to ensure equipment is available, accessible and prepared in line with project schedules.
• Maintain accurate communication regarding yard status, equipment locations and logistics activities.
• Show commitment to HSEQ and promote a proactive safety culture, reporting all incidents, near misses and unsafe conditions.
• Actively participate in HSEQ processes, with authority to stop work if conditions are unsafe or not in line with MDL procedures.
• Challenge and improve yard processes and logistics handling methods to increase efficiency and reduce risk.
• Support wider MDL operational activities as required, including assisting technicians and workshop personnel.
• Work overtime as required to support project schedules and operational demands.
• Maintain good working relationships with internal teams, clients and stakeholders, acting as an MDL ambassador at all times.
• Develop knowledge and competency in carousel operations with the intention of progressing into a Carousel Operator / Maintainer role at PESB.

Desired Skills and Experience

Essential

• Valid forklift licence and practical experience
• Experience working in a yard, warehouse or industrial environment
• Good understanding of safe lifting and handling practices
• Ability to work in a physically active, outdoor environment

Desirable

• Experience with offshore or heavy equipment operations
• Basic mechanical or equipment handling knowledge
• Experience supporting logistics or asset movement coordination
• Interest in developing into equipment operation roles

Skills that will be developed for this role

• Understanding of MDL asset types, storage requirements and handling methods.
• Knowledge of equipment logistics, mobilisation and demobilisation processes.
• Understanding of asset condition monitoring and basic maintenance requirements.
• Exposure to MDL workshop and operational processes supporting project delivery.
• Understanding of cable handling operations and carousel systems at PESB.
• Development of operational planning awareness for yard and quayside activities.
• Knowledge of HSEQ requirements associated with yard operations and lifting activities.

Training & Job Specific Requirements

• While working at MDL facilities or client sites, employees are expected to follow all safe working instructions and actively engage in their development.
• To attend and successfully complete all required training, including forklift competency maintenance, HSEQ training and any MDL-specific operational training.
• MDL will support development into carousel operations through structured on-the-job training and mentoring as PESB activities develop.
• Be willing to take on additional responsibilities such as fire warden, first aider or safety representative if required.
• Be willing to consider any in-house roles that may become available (fire warden/first aid/safety rep etc).

Personal Attributes

• Strong work ethic with a practical, hands-on approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Clear communication skills with all levels of personnel.
• Proactive and takes ownership of tasks and responsibilities.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing operational demands.
• Safety-focused with a responsible and professional attitude.

At Maritime Developments, we believe that diversity drives innovation and success. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and supported. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.