Yard Operative
If you have a passion for delivering great customer service, can build trust and are able to proactively seek out solutions that are right for our customers, then you are likely to be a great fit!
About Lawsons Group
Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber, and building materials, operating 35 branches across London and the South East. Since 1921, we have built our success on exceptional service, colleague development, and fostering an inclusive and rewarding workplace. Join us at AVS Havant and be part of our growing, friendly team.
Yard Operative – AVS Havant
Are you seeking a hands-on role in a dynamic outdoor environment? AVS Havant is looking for a motivated Yard Operative to support our busy branch operations. If you take pride in safety, teamwork, and delivering top-class service to customers, this could be your next rewarding career move.
Working Hours & Location – AVS Havant
This is a full-time position working 44.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday from 07:30 – 17:00, plus alternate Saturdays from 08:00 – 12:00.
The role is based at our AVS Havant branch:
Stansted Sawmill, Rowland's Castle, PO9 6DU.
Benefits of Becoming a Yard Operative at Lawsons Group
- Salary range £29,000 - £31,000, depending on experience, with regular reviews based on skills and performance.
- 25 days holiday (plus Bank Holidays) and an extra celebration day.
- Pension scheme, Death In Service benefit, and Employee Assistance Programme.
- My Reward employee benefits including Online GP Access.
- Comprehensive on-the-job training and long-term career development opportunities.
- Welcoming, safety-focused team environment committed to inclusion and personal growth.
Main Responsibilities...
- Safely load and unload deliveries of timber, fencing, and building materials using forklifts and manual handling techniques.
- Pick, prepare, and package customer orders efficiently and accurately, ensuring a high standard of service.
- Maintain a well-organised, tidy yard environment following health and safety best practices at all times.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to support smooth branch operations and help achieve daily targets.
- Carry out routine checks of vehicles, equipment, and yard areas, promptly reporting any issues or hazards.
- Assist with stock management tasks including receiving deliveries, stock rotation, and regular inventory checks.
- Deliver goods to customers when required, providing friendly and professional customer service.
- Actively engage in all provided training to enhance your skills and understanding of timber and building supply chains.
- Uphold company values of respect, inclusion, professionalism, and commitment to customer care.
What We’re Looking For – Skills & Qualities in a Yard Operative
- Genuine interest in working outdoors within a busy building materials or timber merchant environment.
- Previous experience as a Yard Operative is essential – full training will also be provided.
- Forklift licence (counterbalance or reach) is an advantage; training can be arranged for suitable candidates.
- A strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and reliability in a team setting.
- Good attention to detail and a commitment to safety in all aspects of the role.
- Ability to undertake regular manual handling and outdoor tasks in line with health and safety procedures.
- Effective communication skills and respect for all colleagues and customers.
- Basic numeracy and literacy required.
Why Apply – Join the Lawsons Group/AVS Havant Team
- Grow your career with a respected, supportive company known for colleague progression and a positive culture.
- Learn from industry experts and gain valuable skills in timber, yard management, and customer service.
- Enjoy a varied, practical working day where your contribution truly matters.
- Progress to higher-skilled or supervisory positions as you develop within Lawsons Group.
- Be valued for your ideas in an inclusive organisation committed to your wellbeing and success. #MP
- Department
- Operations
- Role
- Yard Operative
- Locations
- Havant

Colleagues
Havant
Our Perks & Benefits
-
🏖️ 25 days paid holiday
- plus Bank Holidays and an extra day off for your birthday
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🎁 MyReward benefits platform
- including retail discounts and an online GP service
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🪙 Pension scheme
-
👓 Specsavers eyecare vouchers
-
🚲 Cycle to work scheme
- a loan of up to £1000 to buy a bike
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💷 Generous staff discount
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🚉 Annual season ticket loan
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🗣️ Employee Assisted Programme
- free legal, financial or relationship advice for you and your immediate family
-
🧑🤝🧑 Life assurance
Workplace, Culture & Diversity
Corporate culture is essential to allow the organization to differentiate itself. In terms of image on the one hand, it has strengths both internally and externally to consumers. It is indeed a source of cohesion and motivation of employees and it limits conflicts. With customers, it conveys a positive image and can develop a feeling of closeness to the company or even become a criterion of choice.