Lawsons is proud to be the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, with over 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we continue to grow by building lasting relationships with customers and cultivating a supportive team culture. We are recruiting a Yard Operative to join our Oxford Fencing Supplies branch to support yard operations, customer service and site safety.

Role Overview

This is a hands-on, physical role for a reliable Yard Operative. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with the safe receipt, storage and movement of fencing, timber and building materials within the yard, supporting customer collections and deliveries, maintaining site tidiness and adhering to all health & safety procedures. The role requires practical problem solving, good teamwork and a customer-focused attitude.

Working Hours

• Full-time, permanent role. Typical hours are Monday to Friday, with 1 in 2 Saturdays working 08.00 - 12.00.

• Overtime may be required during busy periods; availability for early starts is desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Unload, load and move fencing, timber and building materials safely using appropriate manual handling techniques and powered equipment where authorised.

• Operate yard machinery (e.g. forklift, telehandler) if trained and authorised, ensuring all safety procedures and licence requirements are met.

• Prepare customer orders for collection and support drivers with loading to ensure secure and correctly loaded vehicles.

• Maintain accurate stock records and assist with stock counts and stock replenishment as required.

• Keep the yard and branch areas clean, organised and safe, removing hazards and reporting defects promptly.

• Assist customers courteously on site, providing a professional representation of Lawsons at all times.

• Complete and process paperwork accurately, including delivery/collection documentation and incident reports.

• Adhere to all company policies and relevant health & safety legislation, including PPE requirements and safe systems of work.

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in a yard, warehouse or merchant environment is essential.

• Ability to perform manual handling tasks safely and repeatedly throughout the shift.

• Valid forklift or telehandler licence/certification is an advantage but not essential; training can be provided for the right candidate.

• Good timekeeping, reliability and the ability to work as part of a busy team.

• Basic numeracy and record-keeping skills to support stock and paperwork accuracy.

• Clear communication skills and a customer-focused approach.

• Positive attitude towards health & safety, with a willingness to follow procedures and report hazards.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary, which is dependent on experience (£28,971 - £31,000).

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays and an additional celebration day, rising with service in line with company policy.

• Company pension scheme and Death in Service cover.

• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Online GP services.

• Industry-leading training and development opportunities and genuine progression prospects within Lawsons.

Why Join Lawsons Oxford?

• Join the UK’s leading independent merchant for fencing, timber and building materials.

• Work in a supportive, team-focused environment with experienced colleagues.

• Play a key role in ensuring the smooth running of yard operations and delivering excellent service to trade and retail customers locally.

• Benefit from structured training, clear progression pathways and a company committed to colleague wellbeing.

Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are a reliable, hardworking Yard Operative who takes pride in safe working practices and excellent customer service, we would like to hear from you. #MP