forklift jobs

Job Description – Yard Operative

Location: Leyland, Preston, PR25 3GR
Salary: Negotiable (dependent on experience)
Start Date: Immediate start available
Hours: Monday–Friday, 08:00–17:00 (overtime required when necessary, including occasional Saturdays)

About Us

We are part of the Lifting Solutions Group within Axel Johnson International, a global industrial group consisting of over 200 companies and more than 5,700 employees across 34 countries. As part of Axel Johnson, a privately owned Swedish industrial organisation, we pride ourselves on innovation, safety, and service excellence.

We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where every individual can achieve their full potential. We actively promote equality of opportunity and do not tolerate discrimination on the grounds of race, sex, pregnancy or maternity, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, disability, religion or belief, age, or sexual orientation.

Lifting Gear UK Group

Lifting Gear UK is the largest privately owned lifting equipment provider in the UK, with 12 strategically located depots across England and Scotland. Originating in Leyland, Preston, we provide a comprehensive range of lifting equipment for hire and sale, alongside specialist services including heavy lifting projects, contract lifting, and bespoke design and fabrication.

Our success is built on strong product knowledge, high service standards, and a dedicated workforce. We invest in our people and offer ongoing training, career progression, and an excellent benefits package to the right candidate.

The Role

We are looking for a dedicated and proactive Yard Operative to join our busy depot in Leyland. You will play a key part in ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the yard and equipment, supporting both workshop and hire functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the day-to-day running and organisation of the yard.
• Ensure strict adherence to Health & Safety, quality, and environmental regulations as set out by the LGUK Group.
• Report any Health & Safety concerns within the yard or workshop to your Line Manager.
• Load and unload wagons/vehicles safely and efficiently.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards to ensure a clean, tidy, and safe working environment.
• Ensure all visitors and personnel entering the yard sign the Toolbox Talk register and wear appropriate PPE.
• Segregate conforming and non-conforming equipment (OHNC, LGUK Repairs, Customer Repairs, Quarantined Items).
• Complete picking lists issued by external branches and the office.
• Report any damage to LGUK hire fleet items immediately, including photographic evidence.
• Support annual December stock takes for all sales stock.
• Process OHNC (Off Hire Not Confirmed) equipment within required company timescales.
• Ensure all in-house lifting equipment is in date, correctly tagged, and accompanied by a current Report of Thorough Examination.

Requirements

• Previous experience in a similar yard, labouring, or industrial role is essential.
• Good level of physical fitness and ability to carry out manual handling tasks.
• Forklift truck experience (training can be provided if not already qualified).
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Good customer service and communication skills.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Slingers/Signallers experience or certification (advantageous).

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £12.21-£13.00 per hour

Work Location: In person