Forklift Driver Counterbalance

Workchain; Northampton; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 20,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Quarterly bonus

Training & progression

Job summary

Workchain in Northampton is hiring for a Forklift Driver / Warehouse Operative on a Temp-to-Perm basis. The role begins at 2:00 PM–10:00 PM for induction and shifts to a night schedule 9:00 PM–5:30 AM after training.

Immediate training and progression opportunities are offered, including apprenticeships for beginners. You will safely operate a counterbalance forklift, scan stock with handheld devices, and assist with loading/unloading.

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate a safety-aware approach in a fast-paced warehouse environment.
• Good communication skills are essential for radio handsets and team coordination.
• Reliability, punctuality and a willingness to work shifts are required.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a counterbalance forklift and move pallets.
• Use hand-held scanners to track stock and freight.
• Load and unload vehicles efficiently and maintain warehouse safety standards.
• Communicate clearly with colleagues using radios.

Skills

Safety-conscious attitude

Communication skills

Reliability and punctuality

Teamwork

Tools

Hand-held scanners

Job description

Job Title: Forklift Driver / Warehouse Operative (Temp-to-Perm)

Location: Northampton

Pay Rate: GBP 13.50 - GBP 14.50 per hour (Temp) | Rising to £32,217.41 per year (£15.49 per hour) plus quarterly bonuses upon going permanent!

Hours: 40 hours per week (Nights: transitioning to 9:00 PM - 5:30 AM after training)

Job Type: Temporary-to-Permanent (TTP) / Apprenticeship options available

About the Opportunity

Are you looking to kickstart your career in logistics, or are you an experienced FLT driver looking for a permanent home? A leading transport and logistics business in Northampton is expanding its team and looking for 2 to 4 dedicated candidates for Temp-to-Perm (TTP) roles.

Whether you are an experienced forklift driver, someone with an expired license who needs a refresher, or a school leaver looking to train from scratch with an apprenticeship, this company invests in your future!

What You Will Be Doing

• Operating in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, your key daily responsibilities will include: Safely operating a counterbalance forklift (handling pallet movement).
• Using hand-held scanners to track stock and freight.
• Loading and unloading vehicles efficiently.
• Communicating clearly with your team using radio handsets.
• Maintaining strict health and safety standards across the warehouse.

Training & Progression

• Experienced FLT Drivers: Complete a standard forklift assessment and induction, with extra training time available if needed.
• Expired Licenses: In-house trainers can fully refresh your qualifications.
• School Leavers / Beginners: Full training provided from scratch, with Warehousing and Supply Chain Apprenticeships available for driven individuals.

Career Growth

Massive opportunities to progress within the company once established.

Shifts & Working Hours

• Initial Stage: First week will typically be 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM for induction and trainer shadowing.
• Permanent Shift: Once training is completed, you will transition to the night shift (9:00 PM – 5:30 AM).

Salary & Benefits

• Temporary Rate: £13.50 to £14.50 per hour.
• Permanent Salary: £32,217.41 per annum (£15.49 basic hourly rate).
• Bonus Scheme: Quarterly bonus.
• Work-Life Perks: Paid every Wednesday (during the temp phase) and fantastic long-term career stability.

What We Are Looking For

• A positive, safety-conscious attitude.
• Strong communication skills (comfortable using radio handsets).
• Reliability, punctuality, and a willingness to work hard in a fast-paced setting.

Note: Counterbalance licenses are a plus but not strictly required if you are eager to learn through our training programs!