FLT / Counterbalance / Reach Operator

Natara Global; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Natara Global is seeking a hands-on FLT and production-support operative for our Hartlepool site. You will safely operate forklift trucks, move materials, support the Production team, and help maintain stock and waste procedures.

Ideal candidates will hold valid Counterbalance and Reach forklift qualifications, experience in safe material handling, and a willingness to work outdoors. The role reports to the Production Manager and aligns with Natara's safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Current and valid Counterbalance Forklift Truck qualification.
• Current and valid Reach Forklift Truck qualification.
• Practical experience operating both Counterbalance and Reach forklift trucks.
• Experience moving, loading and storing materials safely.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate Counterbalance and Reach forklift trucks safely.
• Load, unload and move materials around the site.
• Support Production and other departments with FLT requirements.
• Complete daily forklift checks and report any faults.
• Assist with stock control, stock movements and stock counts.
• Manage consumable stock for the Production team.
• Prepare waste materials for collection and disposal.
• Move and load drums, IBCs, skips and other containers.
• Support the loading of waste tanks and tankers.
• Maintain clean, safe and organised external working areas.
• Follow all site health, safety, quality and environmental procedures.
• Wear and maintain the required personal protective equipment.
• Report incidents, hazards and unsafe conditions.
• Work flexibly and support the wider team wherever required.

Skills

Forklift operation (Counterbalance)

Forklift operation (Reach)

Stock management

Literacy & numeracy

Tools

Counterbalance forklift

Reach forklift

Job description

Location: Hartlepool

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £27,000

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am–4:00pm

Reports to: Production Manager

About Natara

Natara Global is a leading independent manufacturer of speciality aroma chemicals and natural extracts for the global flavour and fragrance industry.

With manufacturing operations across the UK, US and China, Natara supplies specialist ingredients used in food, beverages, fragrances and household products. Safety, quality, teamwork and continuous improvement are central to how we operate.

Role Overview

This is a hands-on FLT and production-support role based at our Hartlepool site. You will support the safe movement and storage of materials, assist with stock management, undertake waste-handling activities and provide general support to the Production team and wider site.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate Counterbalance and Reach forklift trucks safely.
• Load, unload and move materials around the site.
• Support Production and other departments with FLT requirements.
• Complete daily forklift checks and report any faults.
• Assist with stock control, stock movements and stock counts.
• Manage consumable stock for the Production team.
• Prepare waste materials for collection and disposal.
• Move and load drums, IBCs, skips and other containers.
• Support the loading of waste tanks and tankers.
• Maintain clean, safe and organised external working areas.
• Follow all site health, safety, quality and environmental procedures.
• Wear and maintain the required personal protective equipment.
• Report incidents, hazards and unsafe conditions.
• Work flexibly and support the wider team wherever required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Current and valid Counterbalance Forklift Truck qualification.
• Current and valid Reach Forklift Truck qualification.
• Practical experience operating both Counterbalance and Reach forklift trucks.
• Experience moving, loading and storing materials safely.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills.
• Ability to complete basic stock and equipment records.
• Willingness to undertake manual and outdoor work.

Desirable

• Experience within manufacturing, production, warehousing or logistics.
• Experience working within a chemical or hazardous environment.
• Experience handling drums, IBCs, waste materials or dangerous goods.

Personal Attributes

• Safety-conscious and dependable.
• Practical and willing to get stuck in.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexible and comfortable supporting different departments.
• Organised, accurate and attentive to detail.
• Positive, self-motivated and reliable.

Natara Values

• We care.
• Be customer-focused.
• Raise the bar.
• Think and act as one team.
• Do the right thing.
• We deliver.