Role Overview

We are recruiting a Yard Operative / Van Driver to join our Witham Timber team. This branch-based, customer-facing role combines yard duties with local delivery responsibilities. The successful candidate will be reliable, safety conscious and adaptable, working as part of a busy branch team to maintain yard standards, load and prepare orders and deliver materials to trade and retail customers in a timely and professional manner.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive company vans to deliver materials to customers’ sites, following job sheets and instructions from the Transport Supervisor and branch team.

• Assist with loading and unloading at the branch and customer sites; ensure loads are secured for transit using straps, tarpaulins and other restraints to prevent damage.

• Prepare customer orders in the yard, pick and stage materials accurately, and support stock checks to maintain branch stock accuracy.

• Operate yard equipment safely where trained and authorised (e.g. pallet truck, forklift assistance) and follow safe systems of work at all times.

• Provide excellent customer service at point of collection and delivery; liaise professionally with customers to ensure safe placement of goods and resolve queries courteously.

• Carry out daily vehicle checks and basic yard equipment checks, report any defects through the correct channels and ensure vehicle documentation is complete and up to date.

• Complete delivery paperwork and electronic proof of delivery accurately and promptly, reporting any shortages, damage or customer queries to the Transport Supervisor or Branch Manager.

• Maintain a clean, tidy and safe yard environment; remove waste, sweep yards and ensure loading areas are clear to support efficient turnaround of vehicles.

• Adhere to company health and safety policies, use appropriate PPE, follow site-specific instructions and report incidents or near misses immediately.

• Work flexibly to provide cover across the Witham Timber branch and neighbouring branches as required, supporting peak periods and ad-hoc operational needs.

Person Specification

• Valid UK driving licence (Category B) with a clean, safe driving record; additional categories desirable but not essential.

• Previous experience in a yard operative, warehouse or delivery driver role within a builders’ merchant, timber yard or similar environment is essential.

• Good practical knowledge of manual handling and safe working practices with a commitment to follow company procedures.

• Customer-focused with strong communication skills and a professional, courteous manner when dealing with customers and colleagues.

• Reliable, punctual and able to work flexibly to meet business needs, including early starts and every other Saturday cover.

• Physically fit and able to carry out manual handling tasks and work outdoors in variable weather conditions.

• Basic IT literacy to use handheld devices and electronic proof of delivery systems.

• A team player who works well with colleagues across yard, branch and transport functions to deliver safe and efficient service.

Working Hours, Salary and Benefits

• Full-time, permanent position based at our Witham Timber branch.

• Typical contracted hours will vary to meet operational needs; early starts are common. Flexibility to provide cover across the working week is required. (For example: 44.5 hours - Monday - Friday 06:30 - 16:00 or 07:30 - 17:00, plus 1 in 2 Saturdays 08:00 - 12:00)

• Competitive salary in line with experience (circa £31,000).

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

• Company pension scheme.

• Employee Assistance Programme and access to online GP services.

• Comprehensive induction, on-the-job training and opportunities for ongoing development and progression within the business.

Why Join Witham Timber?

• Work for a well-established, family-owned company with a strong local reputation and commitment to service.

• Be part of a supportive, team-focused environment where safety and customer service are prioritised.

• Develop your skills through structured training and clear progression pathways within the business.

• Play an important role in delivering outstanding service to trade and retail customers in Witham and the surrounding area.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are a dependable, safety-focused operative and driver who takes pride in delivering excellent service, we would like to hear from you. #MP