Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief Operations · Rudgwick

Lawsons Ltd.; Rudgwick; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent supplier of timber and building materials in Rudgwick is seeking a Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief. In this full-time, permanent role, you will safely load and unload materials, deliver products to local customers, and ensure compliance with health and safety protocols. The ideal candidate will have a full UK driving licence and a valid forklift certificate, along with a strong customer focus and teamwork skills. Enjoy a competitive salary, holiday entitlement, and ongoing training opportunities.

Benefits

25 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays and 1 celebration day

Company pension and Employee Assistance Programme

Staff discounts and Online GP access

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a yard, builders’ merchant, warehouse or similar practical role.
• Physically fit to carry out manual handling in all weather conditions.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team.

Responsibilities

• Safely load and unload timber and supplies to vehicles.
• Deliver materials locally when acting as van driver relief.
• Keep the yard tidy and comply with Health & Safety requirements.
• Assist customers by locating and advising on products.
• Conduct stock checks and support inventory management.

Skills

Customer-focused

Health & Safety awareness

Teamwork

Manual handling

Education

Valid forklift certificate

Full UK Driving Licence

Job description

Lawsons, the UK’s leading independent supplier of timber, fencing, and building materials, has an exciting opportunity for a Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief to join our Rudgwick branch. If you enjoy practical outdoor work, are safety conscious, and take pride in delivering excellent customer service, we’d welcome your application to become part of our committed team.

Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief – Rudgwick

As a Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief at AVS Rudgwick, you will help ensure the smooth operation of the branch by supporting yard duties and providing flexible van driving cover when required. This varied role combines hands‑on handling of timber and building materials with occasional local deliveries, so a practical, safety‑first approach and good customer skills are essential. You will work closely with colleagues to maintain an organised yard and deliver a reliable service to our customers.

Main Responsibilities – Yard Operative / Van Driver Relief

• Safely load and unload timber, fencing, and building supplies to customer and company vehicles, following manual handling best practice.
• Deliver materials to local customers when acting as van driver relief, ensuring goods are secure and delivered on time with a professional, customer‑focused manner.
• Keep the yard tidy, well organised and compliant with Health & Safety requirements, including risk assessments and site procedures.
• Assist customers at the counter and in the yard by locating, retrieving and advising on products in a friendly and respectful way.
• Carry out stock checks and support inventory management, reporting discrepancies to the branch manager.
• Operate forklifts and other handling equipment safely.
• 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 flexible 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 Full UK Driving Licence is essential for van driving duties; a clean driving record is preferred.
• Valid forklift certificate is also 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 provide van cover and support branch operations as needed.

Working Hours, Pay and Benefits –

• Full‑time, permanent role with flexibility for relief driving duties.
• Salary between £29,000 - £29,500, depending on experience.
• Working hours are between 07:00 and 18:00, including alternate Saturday mornings (08:00–12:00)
• Competitive salary dependent on experience and responsibilities.
• 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 Rudgwick?

• 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 driving and handling 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 #MP