At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep our yard safe and organised while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Company: Join a diverse team at phs, committed to inclusivity and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 31 days off, and discounts at major retailers.
- Other info: Great career development opportunities and regular overtime available.
- Why this job: Perfect for plant lovers who thrive in hands-on, active roles.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of horticulture and a proactive attitude are key.
The predicted salary is between 27493 - 27493 £ per year.
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.
Qualifications
- 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).
Benefits
- 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.
EEO Statement
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: PHSGroup
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 their values and culture, especially around safety and teamwork. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral—definitely a win-win!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! Since this is a practical role, be ready to demonstrate your skills in plant care and equipment handling. Practising these tasks beforehand can really boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application.
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 skills that highlight your enthusiasm for working outdoors and maintaining a safe environment.
Be Proactive in Your Approach:We’re looking for someone with a proactive attitude, so make sure to showcase this in your application. Talk about times when you've taken initiative or gone above and beyond in previous roles—this will really catch our eye!
Highlight Your Teamwork Skills:Since this role involves working closely with others, emphasise your strong communication skills and ability to collaborate. Share examples of how you've successfully worked as part of a team in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, apply directly 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 PHSGroup
✨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 how you can contribute to maintaining a safe and organised yard environment.
✨Show Off Your Safety Awareness
Since safety is a big deal in this role, be prepared to talk about your understanding of Health & Safety standards. Share any past experiences where you promoted safety or dealt with compliance issues.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This job requires strong communication skills and teamwork. Think of examples from your previous roles where you worked well with others, especially in a hands-on environment. Highlight your proactive attitude!
✨Get Familiar with Yard Equipment
If you have experience operating yard equipment like telehandlers, make sure to mention it. Even if you don’t have a licence, showing enthusiasm for learning and handling equipment will impress them.
