At a Glance
- Tasks: Support warehouse operations, handle furniture, and maintain a clean workspace.
- Company: Join OKA, a thriving British homeware retailer with a passion for beautiful design.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for growth in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Entry-level position with a focus on safety and effective communication.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that creates welcoming spaces and delivers quality service.
- Qualifications: Experience in warehouse operations and strong teamwork skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
OKA, founded over 20 years ago by three entrepreneurial women, is a British‑born furniture and homeware retailer with a passion for creating beautiful, practical, and comfortable homes. OKA inspires individuals to design spaces that reflect their personality while being welcoming and livable for family and friends. With 14 stores and concessions across the UK, an established interior design and trade business, and a strong online presence, OKA is a thriving brand in the homeware and furniture industry.
This is a 32‑hour on‑site role for a Manual Operative located in the Greater Oxford Area, Bicester. The Manual Operative will be responsible for:
- Supporting warehouse operations
- Handling furniture and homeware with care
- Performing inventory management tasks
- Assembling and preparing goods for display or delivery
- Maintaining a clean and organized workspace
The role also requires adherence to safety protocols and effective communication with team members to ensure smooth daily operations.
Qualifications:
- Experience in warehouse operations, inventory management, and organizational skills
- Physical ability to handle and assemble furniture and heavy homeware items with care
- Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining cleanliness and safety standards
- Effective teamwork and communication skills for collaborating with colleagues
- Adaptability and a proactive approach to solving problems in a fast‑paced environment
- Prior experience in a manual or warehouse role is beneficial
- A commitment to delivering high standards of quality and service
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Full‑time
Industries: Furniture and Home Furnishings Manufacturing
Manual Operatives employer: OKA
At OKA, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Located in the picturesque Milton Park, Abingdon, our team enjoys generous benefits including 33 days of holiday, a health cash plan, and exclusive employee discounts, all while having ample opportunities for professional growth within our dynamic merchandising team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manual Operatives
✨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 Manual Operatives
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 OKA'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 OKA. 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 OKA
✨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 OKA.
