Yard Associate

Kent Building Supplies; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail building supply company is seeking a Yard Associate in Dartmouth, NS. This role involves assisting customers with product selection, loading materials, and maintaining safety standards in a busy outdoor yard environment. The ideal candidate is safety-conscious, possesses strong communication skills, and is physically able to lift heavy items. Previous experience in a retail or lumber yard setting is advantageous. Flexible shifts including weekends may be required, ensuring diverse team dynamics in a supportive workplace.

Qualifications

• Physical ability to lift and move heavy materials.
• Available to work a variable shift schedule including mornings, evenings and weekends.
• Previous experience in a lumber yard or retail environment is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety standards are met at all times.
• Greet and assist customers with product selection.
• Load, unload, replenish, and restock inventory in the yard.
• Organize and maintain yard displays.
• Operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks.

Skills

Strong safety mindset

Excellent communication skills

Customer service skills

Ability to work outdoors

Team-oriented

Education

Grade 12 diploma or equivalent

Job description

As a Yard Associate, you’ll play a key role in delivering exceptional service to our customers by assisting with product selection, loading, and ensuring a safe and organized yard environment. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands‑on work and thrive in an outdoor setting.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safety standards are met at all times.
• Greet and assist customers with locating, picking, and loading lumber and building materials.
• Organize and maintain yard displays, including signage and pricing.
• Load, unload, replenish, and restock inventory in the yard.
• Operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks (training provided).
• Complete paperwork for orders, returns, and damaged goods.
• Stay informed about new products and promotions.

Qualifications

• Strong safety mindset and attention to detail.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Available to work a variable shift schedule including mornings, evenings and weekends.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Previous experience in a lumber yard or retail environment is an asset.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented setting.
• Physical ability to lift and move heavy materials.
• Must be 21+ years of age due to forklift operation requirements.
• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent is required.

About Us

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

We appreciate your interest in our company but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About The Team

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know‑how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co‑operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing.