At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate forklifts and telehandlers while supporting yard operations in a busy recycling facility.
- Company: Join a dynamic recycling and waste processing team in Tondu, Bridgend.
- Benefits: Earn £14.24 per hour with overtime opportunities and potential early finishes.
- Other info: Great chance to develop skills across various plant and machinery.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience in a varied role with a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Valid FLT and Telehandler licences, plus teamwork and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 14.24 - 14.24 £ per hour.
We are seeking a reliable and hardworking FLT Driver & Telehandler Operator / Yard Operative to join our busy recycling and waste processing operation in Tondu, Bridgend. This is a varied, hands-on role that involves operating both forklift trucks and telehandlers, alongside general yard duties and supporting the day-to-day running of the site. Successful candidates will be expected to work safely, maintain high housekeeping standards, and contribute to the efficient movement and processing of materials across the facility.
Shift Pattern
- Week 1: 05:30 – 15:00 (Hours worked between 14:00 and 15:00 are paid at time and a half (£21.36 per hour). All employees are required to attend a shift debrief in the office at the end of their shift, in full uniform, before clocking out. Attendance before the scheduled start time is not required and will not be paid.)
- Week 2: 09:30 – 18:00 (Employees on the late shift may benefit from a job and finish arrangement, subject to management approval. If all work is completed and the yard, machinery, and work areas are cleaned and left to the required standard, employees may leave early while still receiving full shift pay.)
Key Responsibilities
- Unload stillages and materials from incoming vehicles using a forklift truck.
- Load bales onto articulated vehicles using clamp attachments.
- Move stock and materials safely around the site.
- Operate telehandlers to move stock, manage storage stacks, and support production activities.
- Load loose product into bulk freight vehicles.
- Operate brush attachments and assist with yard maintenance.
- Run the fibre baler and load product into baler hoppers where required.
- Support the operation of plastic, steel, and aluminium baling equipment.
- Carry out cleaning and housekeeping duties between loading and unloading activities.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment.
- Follow all company health and safety procedures and site rules.
What We're Looking For
Essential
- Valid Counterbalance FLT licence.
- Valid Telehandler licence/certification.
- Previous experience operating forklifts and telehandlers.
- Ability to work safely in a busy industrial environment.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Reliable, punctual, and hardworking attitude.
Desirable
- Experience within recycling, waste management, manufacturing, logistics, or industrial operations.
- Experience operating baling equipment or other mobile plant machinery.
What We Offer
- Competitive pay rate of £14.24 per hour.
- Overtime paid at £21.36 per hour where applicable.
- Full-time, permanent employment.
- Potential early finishes on late shifts under the job-and-finish arrangement.
- Opportunities to develop skills across a range of plant and machinery.
- Supportive team environment and stable workload.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced FLT Driver and Telehandler Operator who enjoys a varied role and is willing to get involved in all aspects of yard and plant operations. To apply, please submit your CV and details of your current FLT and Telehandler certifications.
Work Location: In person
FLT Driver & Telehandler Operator employer: Smart Solutions
Join our dynamic team in Tondu, Bridgend, where we prioritise a supportive work culture and offer competitive pay rates for our FLT Driver & Telehandler Operator role. With opportunities for skill development across various plant and machinery, you will thrive in a stable environment that values safety and teamwork, while enjoying the potential for early finishes on late shifts. We are committed to fostering employee growth and maintaining high standards in our recycling and waste processing operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FLT Driver & Telehandler Operator
✨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 FLT Driver & Telehandler Operator
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 Smart Solutions'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 Smart Solutions. 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 Smart Solutions
✨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 Smart Solutions.