Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
Yard Operative
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Role Overview
We are recruiting a Yard Operative to join our Colney Heath branch. This is a hands-on, branch-based role responsible for:
- Receiving, storing, and preparing goods
- Supporting the yard team with loading and unloading
- Maintaining yard and stock accuracy
- Delivering exceptional customer service
Successful candidates must be reliable, safety-conscious, and able to collaborate in a fast-paced team to ensure smooth branch operations.
Key Responsibilities
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Receiving & Verification
- Receive deliveries from suppliers and check goods against delivery paperwork, reporting discrepancies to the Yard Supervisor
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Loading & Unloading
- Safely unload and load vehicles using lifting equipment and manual handling techniques
- Assist drivers and customers with loading as required
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Storage & Organisation
- Stack, store, and organise materials securely while protecting goods from damage or poor weather conditions
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Order Processing
- Prepare customer orders for collection or assist with local deliveries, ensuring accuracy and secure packing
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Equipment Operation
- Operate yard equipment (forklifts, pallet trucks, towables) following company procedures, including daily checks, where trained and authorised
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Yard Maintenance
- Maintain a clean and safe yard environment by removing waste, sweeping areas, and addressing spillages promptly
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Stock Management
- Assist with stock counts and stock accuracy checks, recording damaged/missing items and escalating issues as required
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Customer Support
- Deliver excellent over-the-counter service to trade and retail customers, addressing enquiries and assisting with product location
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Health & Safety Compliance
- Adhere to company health and safety policies, use appropriate PPE, complete risk assessments, and report incidents/near-misses immediately
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Team Collaboration
- Support teamwork during peak periods, promotions, or ad-hoc tasks to sustain branch performance
Person Specification
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Essential Experience
- Proven experience in yard operative, warehouse, or builders’ merchant roles
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Technical Requirements
- Forklift (Counterbalance/Reach) certification
- Strong manual handling and safe working practices knowledge
- Manual proficiency for outdoor tasks in all weather conditions
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Soft Skills
- Customer-focused mind with outstanding communication skills and a professional, courteous manner
- Reliable, punctual, and flexible to meet business demands (including early starts or Saturday cover)
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Technical Literacy
- Basic IT proficiency for handheld devices and branch systems (stock/stats processing)
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- Teamwork & Adaptability
- Ability to work effectively across -yard, sales, and transport teams
Working Hours, Salary & Benefits
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Role Type: Full-time, permanent position at Colney Heath branch
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Typical Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 07:30–17:00
- 1 in 2 Saturday mornings (08:00–12:00) to support customer needs (Flexibility required)
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Salary: Competitive—£30,175–£32,000 (based on experience)
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Holidays & Time Off:
- 25 days paid leave + all UK bank holidays + a company celebration day
- Annual increment in line with company policy
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Benefits:
- Company pension scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) + access to online GP services
- Structured induction/training and career progression opportunities
Why Join Lawsons?
- Support a family-owned business with a respected local reputation and focus on customer service excellence
- Join a team-oriented culture where safety and service take pride of place
- Grow your career via clear progression pathways and hands-on training
- Contribute to delivering outstanding services in Colney Heath and surrounding areas
Equal opportunities employer—all qualified applicants welcome. If you’re ** dependable, safety-minded and passionate about service**, we’d love to hear from you. #HP
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