Yard Operative

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, safety conscious and focused on delivering excellent service while maintaining a tidy, efficient and compliant yard environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Unload deliveries and receive stock accurately, checking goods against delivery notes and reporting any discrepancies or damages to the branch supervisor.
• Store and stack timber, fencing and other materials safely and securely, ensuring stock is correctly labelled and organised for efficient access.
• Prepare customer orders for collection and delivery, picking materials accurately and ensuring products are secured for transport.
• Operate yard equipment such as forklift trucks (where trained and authorised), pallet trucks and machetes in accordance with training and company procedures.
• Assist drivers with safe loading of vehicles, using appropriate load restraint methods and safe manual handling techniques.
• Maintain a clean, tidy and safe yard area, carrying out routine housekeeping, waste disposal and keeping walkways and access routes clear.
• Carry out basic stock counts and support stock control processes, including reporting low stock levels and participating in stock checks as required.
• Adhere to all health and safety policies, complete required risk assessments, use PPE at all times and report any hazards or incidents promptly.
• Provide friendly, professional customer service to trade and retail customers visiting the branch, offering assistance and advice where appropriate.
• Support branch colleagues with ad‑hoc tasks and be flexible to cover yard and branch requirements as business needs dictate.

Person Specification

• Previous experience working in a yard, warehouse, builders’ merchants, landscaping or related environment (essential).
• Forklift truck licence and demonstrable experience of operating FLTs is desirable; training can be provided for the right candidate.
• Good understanding of safe manual handling, stacking and load restraint techniques.
• Physically fit and able to undertake manual handling and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Excellent customer service skills with a courteous, professional approach and clear communication.
• Able to work effectively as part of a team, follow instructions and use initiative when required.
• Basic IT literacy to use handheld devices for stock checks and delivery confirmations.
• Knowledge of health and safety legislation relevant to yard operations and a commitment to work safely.
• Reliable, punctual and flexible with working hours to meet branch requirements.

Working Hours, Salary and Benefits

• Full‑time, permanent position based at our Ascot branch.
• Typical contracted hours are Monday to Friday with 1 in 2 Saturday mornings 08.00 - 12.00.
• Competitive salary - £30,175.
• 25 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays and a celebration day, rising with service in line with company policy.
• Company pension scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to online GP services.
• Comprehensive induction, ongoing training and clear progression opportunities within the business.

Why Join Lawsons Ascot?

• Work for a well‑established, family‑owned company with a strong local reputation and commitment to service.
• Be part of a supportive, team‑focused environment where safety and customer service are prioritised.
• Develop your career through structured training and clear progression pathways.
• Play an important role in delivering outstanding service to trade and retail customers in Ascot and the surrounding area.

Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are reliable, safety‑focused and take pride in delivering excellent yard service, we would like to hear from you. #MP