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- Tasks: Manage yard operations, coordinate transport, and ensure safety and cleanliness.
- Company: Join McHale Komatsu, a leading construction equipment distributor in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, up to 27 days holiday, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a commitment to community and sustainability.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team making a real impact in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid driving licence and forklift truck licence; experience with heavy machinery preferred.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
At McHale Komatsu we are proud to be one of the largest construction equipment distributors in the UK. We supply some of the world’s most exciting and ground‑breaking products including Intelligent Machine Control (iMC) and Hybrid Excavators, reducing our customers’ fuel usage. We value our local community – with a commitment to improving lives and minimising environmental impact at the top of our lists. We are continuously building a culture where enthusiastic and motivated people can construct a life‑long career within a reputable brand.
We’re looking for a proactive and organised Yard Operative to support the safe and efficient running of our busy Chester‑Le‑Street depot. This is a hands‑on role where you’ll take ownership of the yard area—ensuring machines are correctly managed from arrival through to dispatch. You’ll coordinate transport movements, maintain accurate machine documentation, and keep both the machine park and staging areas organised in line with the PDI schedule. You’ll also play a key role in keeping the workshop supplied with machines and ensuring the yard operates safely at all times.
Duties and responsibilities
- Keep the machine in park and staging areas organised as per the PDI planner.
- Ensure the safe operation of the yard area.
- Ensure that the yard area is kept clean and tidy.
- Complete all documentation for machines arriving and leaving site.
- Conduct regular machine stock checks.
- Direct HGV activity around the yard and allocate machines for delivery.
- Keep the PDI workshop supplied with machines when needed.
- Operate the forklift truck when needed to load/unload transport.
- Coordinate subcontractor works in the yard area.
- Assist the parts department with machine bucket allocations and stock checks.
- Wash and valet new machines when required pre‑delivery.
Person specification
Essential
- Positive approach to Health & Safety.
- Full UK Driving Licence and valid Counterbalance Forklift Truck Licence.
- Experience working with heavy construction plant machinery, including operating or moving hydraulic excavators.
- Previous experience in a yard or similar operational environment.
- Basic IT skills (e.g. Microsoft D365 or similar systems).
- Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good communication skills and a proactive, customer‑focused approach.
- Ability to work to deadlines with a flexible attitude to hours when required.
- Commitment to maintaining high standards of housekeeping and organisation.
Desirable
- Experience working with a construction equipment OEM or dealer.
- Experience in a busy construction plant yard environment.
- HGV / STGO low loader experience.
What we can offer you
- Competitive Salary.
- Up to 27 days holiday linked to service, plus bank holidays and Christmas shutdown.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Company Pension Scheme.
- Career development/progression.
- Death in service benefit.
Yard Operative in Chester-le-Street employer: We Are Workforce Ltd
Contact Detail:
We Are Workforce Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Yard Operative in Chester-le-Street
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know McHale Komatsu! Research the company’s values and products, especially their innovative machinery. This will help you tailor your conversation 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 employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider tips or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! As a Yard Operative, you might be tested on your practical skills. Brush up on your forklift operation and machine handling to impress during any practical evaluations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the McHale Komatsu family. Don’t forget to follow up after applying to express your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Yard Operative in Chester-le-Street
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for the role shine through! We want to see that you're excited about the opportunity to work with us at McHale Komatsu and contribute to our mission of innovation and community support.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience, especially in yard operations or working with heavy machinery. We love seeing how your skills align with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to read and understand. This helps us get a quick grasp of what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the Yard Operative position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at We Are Workforce Ltd
✨Know Your Machines
Familiarise yourself with the types of heavy construction plant machinery mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss specific models, like hydraulic excavators, will show your passion and knowledge about the industry.
✨Safety First
Since health and safety is a top priority for McHale Komatsu, be prepared to discuss your approach to maintaining a safe working environment. Share any relevant experiences where you ensured safety protocols were followed in previous roles.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
As a Yard Operative, organisation is key. Think of examples from your past work where you successfully managed stock or coordinated transport movements. Highlighting these skills will demonstrate your ability to keep the yard running smoothly.
✨Be Proactive and Customer-Focused
McHale Komatsu values a proactive approach. Prepare to share instances where you went above and beyond to assist customers or improve processes. This will showcase your commitment to their customer-focused culture.