Company Overview

AVS, part of the Lawsons Group, is one of the UK’s leading independent suppliers of fencing, timber, and builders’ materials, operating since 1921 with 35 branches and over 700 dedicated employees. We deliver quality products and exceptional service throughout London and the South East.

Yard Operative Role – Rudgwick

As a Yard Operative at our AVS Rudgwick branch, you will play a key role in the efficient, safe, and organised running of our busy yard. This is a hands-on position ideal for individuals who enjoy practical, active work and take pride in delivering outstanding service to colleagues and customers.

Location: Brookside Rural Park, Church St, Rudgwick, Horsham, RH12 3AU.

Working Hours – 

This is a full-time, permanent role. Your working pattern will typically be Monday to Friday 07.30 - 17.00 with alternate Saturday mornings 08.00 - 12.00, supporting the operational needs of the branch.

Benefits of Joining Lawsons AVS Rudgwick – Timber & Building Materials Careers

• Be part of a well-respected, growing company with over a century of excellence in the timber and building materials industry.
• Enjoy a friendly, inclusive team culture and a workplace that values health, safety, and wellbeing.
• Receive comprehensive training, support with career progression, and opportunities for further skills development.
• Benefit from a competitive salary (£29,000), company pension, employee assistance programme, and exclusive staff benefits.
• Make a tangible difference by upholding high operational standards and delivering customer service excellence.

Main Responsibilities – Yard Operative Daily Duties

• Safely loading, unloading, and moving timber, fencing, and building materials using manual handling techniques and mechanical handling equipment.
• Picking orders accurately for customer collections and deliveries, helping maintain high standards of efficiency and reliability.
• Storing goods logically and securely, ensuring the yard is organised, tidy, and compliant with all health & safety regulations.
• Assisting with monthly stock checks and reporting any shortages or damages promptly.
• Delivering excellent customer service to all visitors, drivers, and colleagues in the yard.
• Supporting incoming goods-in processes, and assisting delivery drivers with loading customer vehicles as required.
• Contributing to a culture of best practice in health, safety, and environmental procedures at all times.
• Maintaining a proactive and positive attitude, working collaboratively as part of a dedicated branch team.

Experience, Skills & Requirements – Yard Operative Essentials

• Previous experience in a builders’ merchant, warehouse, yard, or similar environment is beneficial
• A valid forklift certificate is essential.
• Confident with manual handling and able to carry out physically demanding tasks safely (within health & safety guidelines).
• Basic numeracy and literacy, able to follow written instructions and complete records accurately.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with a willingness to assist customers courteously and professionally.
• Good attention to detail, ensuring orders are picked, loaded, and despatched correctly every time.
• Reliable, proactive, and adaptable – able to multi-task in a busy, outdoor working environment.