Yard Operative Operations · Bishops Stortford

Lawsons Ltd.; England; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent supplier of building materials is seeking a Yard Operative for their AVS Bishops Stortford branch. The ideal candidate will enjoy practical outdoor work, prioritize safety, and deliver exceptional customer service. Responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, maintaining yard organization, and assisting customers. Applicants should have a forklift certificate and prior experience in similar roles. This full-time role offers competitive pay and benefits, with opportunities for development within the company.

Benefits

25 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays

Employee Assistance Programme

Staff discounts

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a yard, builders’ merchant, warehouse or similar practical role is essential.
• Strong awareness of Health & Safety practices and willingness to follow site procedures at all times.
• Able to carry out manual handling, lifting, and moving of materials safely.

Responsibilities

• Safely load and unload materials for customers and company vehicles.
• Maintain a tidy and compliant yard.
• Assist customers and support colleagues in delivering high service standards.

Skills

Customer-focused

Physically fit

Good communication skills

Flexible approach to duties

Education

Current forklift certificate

Job description

Lawsons, the UK’s leading independent supplier of timber, fencing and building materials, has an opportunity for a Yard Operative to join our AVS Bishops Stortford branch. If you enjoy practical outdoor work, are safety conscious and take pride in delivering excellent customer service, we’d welcome your application to join our dedicated team.

Yard Operative – AVS Bishops Stortford

As a Yard Operative at AVS Bishops Stortford, you will play a key role in the smooth operation of the branch. This hands‑on role involves loading and unloading materials, maintaining an organised yard, assisting customers and supporting colleagues to deliver a dependable, safety‑first service. You will be part of a team that values respect, reliability and professional customer care.

Main Responsibilities – Yard Operative

• Safely load and unload timber, fencing, building materials and other stock to customer and company vehicles, following manual handling best practice.
• Keep the yard tidy, well organised and compliant with Health & Safety requirements, including following site risk assessments and procedures.
• Assist customers at the counter and in the yard by locating, retrieving and advising on products in a friendly and respectful manner.
• Carry out regular stock checks and support inventory processes, reporting variances to the branch manager.
• Operate forklifts and other handling equipment safely and responsibly.
• Report any safety issues or near misses promptly and contribute to a proactive safety culture across the branch.
• Work collaboratively with the team to provide cover and maintain high service standards during busy periods or staff absence.

Essential Skills, Qualities & Experience

• Previous experience in a yard, builders’ merchant, warehouse or similar practical role is essential.
• A current forklift certificate is essential.
• Physically fit and able to carry out manual handling, lifting and moving of materials safely in all weather conditions.
• Strong awareness of Health & Safety practices and willingness to follow site procedures at all times.
• Customer-focused, dependable and punctual, with good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Flexible approach to duties and working patterns to support branch operations as required.

Working Hours, Pay and Benefits

• Full‑time, permanent role working Monday to Friday (hours are between 07:00 – 17:00, and 1 in 2 Saturday mornings working 08:00 – 12:00).
• Competitive salary dependent on experience (between £28,971 - £29,500).
• Generous holiday entitlement: 25 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays and 1 celebration day.
• Access to a comprehensive benefits package including company pension, Employee Assistance Programme, staff discounts and Online GP via the My Reward platform.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities with potential to gain further qualifications and progress within the Lawsons Group.

Why Work at AVS Bishops Stortford?

• Join a respected independent merchant with a strong focus on safety, customer service and colleague development.
• Work in a supportive team that values fairness, respect and personal growth.
• Enjoy a varied, practical role with opportunities to develop handling and driving skills and take on new responsibilities.
• Benefit from clear pathways for progression within the wider Lawsons organisation.
• Be part of a business that recognises and rewards reliability, initiative and commitment.

Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment for all colleagues. We welcome applications from people of all genders, backgrounds and experiences. #MP