Yard Operative

Yard Operative
Location: Village of Northampton
Hours/Shift Pattern: 0600-1600 this can vary. Overtime is paid at the same rate as normal time. As are Saturdays which we would expect to see, every other one over the winter months covered.
Pay Rate: £14.50
Breaks - 30-minute paid morning break 10-1030 / lunch break unpaid 1300-1330
Job Purpose
We are seeking a reliable, hands-on, and organised individual to oversee our daily yard operations. This role is a blend of team leadership, stock management, and physical operation. You will be responsible for ensuring the yard runs safely and efficiently, vehicles are loaded correctly, and stock is prepared ahead of schedule to meet our delivery demands.
Key Responsibilities
Yard Leadership & Allocation

• Oversee, organise, and allocate daily tasks to the yard staff to ensure maximum productivity.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organised working environment in compliance with health and safety standards.

• Manage stock levels, conduct regular counts, and ensure accurate stock rotation.
• Coordinate the loading and unloading of delivery vehicles safely and efficiently.
• Ensure daily requirements for preparing fuel (bagging, wrapping, palletising) are met and staged for the following day’s deliveries.

• Operate yard machinery including forklifts and loading shovels.
• Perform basic, routine maintenance and safety checks on machinery (forklifts, loading shovels, pre-packing machines, etc.) and report any faults promptly.

• Maintain frequent, clear communication with the main office regarding incoming stock deliveries, load preparation, and forward planning.
• Anticipate potential bottlenecks and work proactively with management to resolve them.

• Resilience under pressure: The ability to stay calm, focused, and organised during peak periods and fast-moving shifts.
• Strong Communication: Able to effectively bridge the gap between the yard team and the office staff.
• Proactive Attitude: A forward-planner who looks ahead to tomorrow’s deliveries rather than just reacting to today’s.

• Valid Forklift Truck (FLT) licence - ideal
• Valid Loading Shovel licence - ideal
• Previous experience in a supervisory or team-lead role within a yard, warehouse, or agricultural setting.

• This is a physically demanding, hands-on role based primarily outdoors and in open-air sheds.
• Note: This job description is a reflection of the core duties required for the role but is not an exhaustive list. Tasks may adapt to meet the evolving needs of the business.
• Winter is our busiest time, so, holidays etc are discouraged during this period