Yard Operative

Who are we?

Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd is a family run business owned and run by the Smith family since 1982. Smiths has grown from a single owner-operated plant hire company to a multifaceted group with family values still firmly at the heart of each project undertaken. With depots in Avonmouth, Cardiff, Gloucester, Stonehouse and Tewkesbury we operate predominately across the South-West of England. We specialise in Construction, Waste Management, Plant Hire, Demolition and Transport operations.

This role is ideal for a motivated and hands-on individual looking to join our team at our Waste Transfer Station in Tewkesbury. As a Yard Operative, you will play a key role in supporting waste processing operations, maintaining a safe, organised, and tidy yard environment, and assisting with the efficient movement of materials around the site. For the right candidate, full training will be provided on a range of plant and machinery, enabling you to support the loading, sorting, and segregation of waste materials while developing valuable skills within the waste and recycling industry.

What are we looking for?

• Previous experience in a waste, recycling, quarry, industrial, or yard environment is desirable but not essential.

• Strong awareness of health and safety procedures.

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

• Reliable, hardworking, and capable of working as part of a team.

Responsibilities for the job role:

• Receive, inspect, and direct incoming waste loads to the appropriate areas of the site.

• Operate plant and machinery safely, including loading shovels, telehandlers, or forklifts (training provided where applicable).

• Segregate and sort waste materials to maximise recycling and recovery opportunities.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised yard environment at all times, including sweeping of yard.

• Assist with loading and unloading vehicles and containers.

• Carry out routine site inspections and report any defects, hazards, or safety concerns.

• Ensure all activities are carried out in compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

• Support colleagues and site management in meeting operational targets and customer service standards.

• Use of telehandler to empty skips

• Sweeping yard

• Fuelling machines

What can we offer you?

• Life Assurance Scheme

• Free on-site Parking

• Corporate gym membership discount

• Annual Salary Review

• Employee discount (50% on Skip Hire, other discounts on group services)

• Boot allowance

• Progression opportunities

• 24 hour unlimited access to mental health support

What are our core values?

If these values align with yours you are in the right place!

Honesty - We believe that honesty in all matters is the best policy.

Family values - We operate as a family unit with high moral standards, discipline and respect.

Hardworking - We are certain that nothing is impossible if you work hard enough at it.

Reliability - We pride ourselves on not letting people down and being true to our word.

Environmental sustainability - We aim to minimise the impact that our company has on the environment by reducing emissions and waste, and recycling a large proportion of our waste (90% plus). We truly believe in a greener future for generations to come.

Please apply if you are interested in this role and we will come back to you.