Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
Yard Operative
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Yard Operative
Yard Operative – Ascot Branch
About Lawsons
Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, we operate across London and the South East of England with over 35 branches, more than 700 employees, and a multi-million pound turnover. We are committed to delivering high-quality products and exceptional service to both trade and retail customers.
Role Overview
We are recruiting a Yard Operative to join our Ascot branch. This is a hands-on, customer-facing role based in the branch yard, responsible for receiving, storing, and preparing timber, fencing, and building materials for customers and deliveries.
The successful candidate will be:
- Reliable and safety-conscious
- Focused on delivering excellent service while maintaining a tidy, efficient, and compliant yard environment
Key Responsibilities
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Unloading & receiving stock
- Unload deliveries and receive stock accurately, checking goods against delivery notes.
- Report any discrepancies or damages to the branch supervisor.
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Stock storage & organisation
- Store and stack timber, fencing, and other materials safely and securely.
- Ensure stock is correctly labelled and organised for efficient access.
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Order preparation
- Prepare customer orders for collection and delivery.
- Pick materials accurately, securing products for transport.
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Equipment operation
- Operate yard equipment such as:
- Forklift trucks (where trained and authorised)
- Pallet trucks
- Machetes (where trained)
- Comply with training and company procedures.
- Operate yard equipment such as:
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Loading & manual handling assistance
- Assist drivers with safe vehicle loading using proper load restraint and manual handling techniques.
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Yard maintenance
- Keep the yard clean, tidy, and safe.
- Perform routine housekeeping, waste disposal, and clear walkways and access routes.
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Stock control support
- Conduct basic stock counts and support stock control processes.
- Report low stock levels and participate in stock checks as required.
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Health & safety compliance
- Adhere to all health and safety policies.
- Complete risk assessments, use PPE, and report hazards or incidents promptly.
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Customer service
- Provide friendly, professional service to trade and retail customers.
- Offer assistance and industry-specific advice.
Additional Duties
- Support branch colleagues with ad-hoc tasks.
- Flexibly meet yard and branch requirements based on business needs.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Previous experience working in:
- A yard, warehouse, builders’ merchants
- Landscaping or a related environment.
Desirable:
- Forklift truck licence and experience.
- Training provided for qualified candidates in forklift operation if needed.
- Strong understanding of safe manual handling, stacking, and load restraint techniques.
- Physical fitness to handle manual labour and outdoor work in all weather.
Skills & Qualities Required:
- Excellent customer service skills, with approachability and professionalism.
- Able to communicate clearly and work effectively in a team.
- Willingness to follow instructions while taking initiative where needed.
- Basic IT literacy for using handheld devices (e.g., stock checks).
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations relevant to yard operations.
- Commitment to maintaining safety standards.
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Personality & Availability:
- Must be:
- Reliable and punctual
- Flexible with working hours to meet branch needs.
Working Hours, Salary & Benefits
- Contract type: Full-time, permanent
- Location: Ascot branch
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 1 in 2 Saturday mornings (08:00–12:00)
- Salary: £30,175 (competitive)
- Holiday entitlement: 25 days per year, plus bank holidays and a celebration day (rising with service)
- Other benefits:
- Company pension scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Access to online GP services
- Comprehensive induction and ongoing training
- Clear career progression opportunities
Why Join Lawsons Ascot?
- Work for a family-owned, locally reputed company committed to service excellence.
- It’s a supportive, team-focused environment prioritising safety and customer service.
- Develop your skill set through structured training and career progression paths.
- Carry out an essential role delivering outstanding service to trade and retail customers in Ascot and nearby areas.
Equal Opportunities Statement
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.
More about the role? Read on—or apply now if you believe you’re the best fit! 📌
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