At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our yard safe and organised while enjoying hands-on work outdoors.
- Company: Join a diverse team at phs, committed to inclusivity and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 31 days off, and ongoing career development.
- Other info: Flexible hours with no weekend work and regular overtime opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with plants and safety.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of horticulture and a proactive attitude are key.
The predicted salary is between 27493 - 27493 £ per year.
Location: Laleham
Permanent full time position
We’re looking for a proactive and reliable Yardman to play a key role in keeping our operations running smoothly. This is a hands‑on role where no two days are the same—perfect for someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in organisation, and has a passion for plants and safety.
Key Responsibilities- Maintaining a safe, clean and organised yard environment, ensuring full compliance with Health & Safety standards and promoting a positive safety culture.
- Managing green and general waste, including correct use and timely emptying of skips.
- Supporting planting activities, including preparing troughs and hanging baskets, and handling returned or spent materials.
- Monitoring and controlling greenhouse areas, ensuring they are well‑maintained and safety compliant.
- Taking ownership of stock control, including goods in/out, storage, rotation and maintaining appropriate stock levels.
- Carrying out watering and general care of all interior and exterior plants.
- Loading and unloading vehicles and trailers and preparing equipment and materials for daily operations (including seasonal peaks such as Christmas).
- Operating yard equipment such as a telehandler, completing all required pre‑use checks and documentation.
- Supervising third‑party contractors on site where required.
- Supporting preventative maintenance programmes and routine inspections to ensure equipment and facilities remain compliant.
- Reporting Health & Safety concerns, near misses and supporting weekly compliance activities (e.g. Yellow Rules) with the Operations Manager.
- Acting as a Fire Marshal and First Aider, and consistently upholding safe working practices.
- Good knowledge of horticulture and plant care.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work well with others.
- Flexible, proactive “can‑do” attitude.
- Good physical fitness for a hands‑on, active role.
- Telehandler Licence (desirable but not essential).
- 40‑hour working week Monday to Friday, with no scheduled weekend working.
- Salary of £27,493.
- 13 paydays per year (every 4 weeks).
- 31 days inclusive of bank/public holidays.
- We do not work on Christmas Day.
- Regular overtime opportunities.
- Ongoing career development opportunities.
- Other benefits: discounts with phs Perks at major retailers and supermarkets; life assurance, pension, a 24‑hour wellbeing helpline and more.
At phs, we pride ourselves on our diverse workforce, and ensuring we have an inclusive environment for all our staff. We remain committed to ensuring our teams can bring their true selves to work without risk or fear of discrimination.
Yard Operative employer: PHS Group Ltd.
At phs, we offer a dynamic and supportive work environment for our Yard Operatives in Laleham, where you can thrive in a hands-on role that celebrates your passion for plants and safety. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide ongoing career development opportunities, a generous benefits package including 31 days of leave and regular overtime, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, making it an excellent place to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research phs and their values. When you show up for an interview, drop in some knowledge about their commitment to safety and inclusivity. It’ll impress them and show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through common questions related to yard operations and plant care. We can help you with mock interviews to boost your confidence and ensure you nail those answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Since this is a hands-on role, wear something practical yet smart for your interview. It shows you understand the job and are ready to get your hands dirty while still being professional.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. Mention something specific from your chat to remind them of your enthusiasm and fit for the Yard Operative role.
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Plants:When you're writing your application, let us know about your love for horticulture and plant care. Share any relevant experiences or knowledge you have that can make you stand out as a Yard Operative.
Highlight Your Safety Awareness:Since safety is key in this role, make sure to mention any previous experience you have with Health & Safety standards. We want to see that you take safety seriously and can contribute to a positive safety culture.
Be Proactive and Flexible:We’re looking for someone with a 'can-do' attitude, so don’t hesitate to showcase examples of how you've been proactive in past roles. Flexibility is also important, so share any experiences where you adapted to changing situations.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us quickly and easily, apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can get back to you promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at PHS Group Ltd.
✨Know Your Horticulture
Brush up on your knowledge of plants and horticulture before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with plant care and any specific techniques you’ve used. This will show your passion for the role and help you connect with the interviewer.
✨Safety First!
Familiarise yourself with Health & Safety standards relevant to yard operations. Be prepared to talk about how you would maintain a safe working environment and handle any potential hazards. Demonstrating your commitment to safety can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Show Off Your Organisation Skills
Since the role involves managing stock and keeping the yard organised, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully maintained order in a busy environment. Highlighting your organisational skills will reassure the employer that you can handle the responsibilities of the job.
✨Be Ready for Hands-On Questions
Expect practical questions about loading/unloading vehicles, operating equipment, or managing waste. Prepare to share specific instances where you’ve performed these tasks. Showing that you’re comfortable with the hands-on nature of the job will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
