Yard Operative / Van Driver

Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent supplier of timber, fencing and building materials. With over 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we deliver quality products, expert advice and excellent customer service. We are recruiting for a Yard Operative / Van Driver to be based at our Peterborough branch to join a busy local team that supports trade and retail customers.

Position Overview

We are seeking a reliable, safety-conscious and customer-focused Yard Operative / Van Driver on a permanent basis. This hands-on role involves operating a company van to deliver products to customers, undertaking yard duties including loading and unloading materials, assisting with stock movement and basic maintenance, and supporting the branch team to ensure timely, accurate and friendly service. The successful candidate will combine safe driving practice with practical yard skills, good attention to health & safety and a collaborative, helpful approach.

Main Responsibilities

• Drive a company van to deliver timber, building materials and other products to trade and retail customers; ensure deliveries are completed safely, on time and with excellent customer service.

• Load and unload materials at the branch and on site, using correct manual handling techniques and mechanical handling equipment where authorised.

• Ensure goods are correctly checked against delivery paperwork, accurately record deliveries and obtain customer signatures or photographic proof as required.

• Support yard duties including moving stock, stacking materials, preparing customer orders and maintaining accurate stock locations.

• Carry out basic vehicle checks and daily van safety inspections; report any defects promptly and ensure the vehicle is kept clean, tidy and fuelled as required.

• Operate mechanical handling equipment (e.g., pallet trucks, forklift) where trained and authorised; complete required checks and follow safe operating procedures.

• Maintain a clean, organised and safe yard and vehicle; ensure tools, equipment and materials are stored correctly to prevent damage and reduce risk.

• Follow all health & safety procedures, including use of PPE and reporting hazards or incidents promptly.

• Assist colleagues with general branch duties when required and support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and customer service.

• Complete and maintain accurate records and paperwork related to deliveries, vehicle checks and stock movements as required by the branch.

• Undertake any other reasonable duties as requested by your line manager to support branch performance and customer satisfaction.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Valid UK driving licence with a clean driving record; category B licence required. Previous delivery driving experience within a builders merchants is essential.

• Experience of yard or warehouse duties including loading/unloading, stock handling and order preparation.

• Knowledge of health & safety practices relevant to yard and driving duties, including manual handling and correct use of PPE.

• Ability to operate basic hand tools and, where trained, mechanical handling equipment safely; forklift licence desirable but not essential.

• Good attention to detail with a commitment to delivering accurate, high quality service and safe working practices.

• Basic IT literacy to complete electronic delivery records, paperwork and follow routing instructions.

• Good communication skills with a cooperative, team-oriented approach and a customer-focused attitude.

• Physically able to perform manual handling tasks, assist with loading/unloading and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Flexible, reliable and punctual with a practical, can-do attitude and willingness to assist across a range of branch activities.

Working Hours

This is a full-time, permanent position - 44.5 hours per week. Typical hours Monday to Friday 07.30 - 17.00 plus 1 in 2 Saturday mornings 08.00 - 12.00. Occasional early starts may be required for deliveries.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£30,175 - £31,500).

• 25 days’ holiday pro rata plus Bank Holidays and 1 celebration day.

• Company pension scheme and Death in Service cover.

• Employee Assistance Programme and access to wellbeing support including online GP.

• Training and development opportunities, including refresher training for driving, plant and safety courses.

• Comprehensive induction and ongoing support with opportunities for career progression within Lawsons.

Why Join Lawsons at Peterborough?

• Work for a respected, long-established company with strong regional presence and commitment to colleague development.

• Join a supportive team where practical skills and reliable service are valued.

• Take on a varied, hands-on role with opportunity to develop driving and yard skills and progress within the business.

• Be part of a business that prioritises safety, quality and excellent customer service.

Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you meet the essential requirements and are available to work from our Peterborough branch, we would like to hear from you. #MP