Yard Operative / FLT Driver

Cheshire Plants; Jodrell Bank; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

Cheshire Plants is seeking a reliable Yard Operative with FLT experience to join our busy plant nursery. You will move plants and stock with FLT, load deliveries, and keep yards tidy while supporting daily nursery logistics.

The role involves outdoor work, basic safety checks, and potential Saturday shifts. Salary range £29,000–£31,000 per year, with standard Monday–Friday hours and seasonal start variations.

Qualifications

• Valid FLT licence (Counterbalance and/or Reach).
• Experience in a yard, warehouse, or outdoor manual role.
• Physically active with the ability to work outdoors.
• Good communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Operate Counterbalance and/or Reach FLT to move plants, compost, pots, and other nursery stock around the yard.
• Load and unload deliveries, ensuring items are handled safely and efficiently.
• Maintain yard organisation, keeping walkways, stock areas, and loading zones clear and tidy.
• Assist with general nursery duties including watering, picking, packing and preparing orders for dispatch.
• Conduct basic FLT safety checks and report any defects or maintenance needs.
• Support stock control by accurately moving, labelling, and storing products.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and follow all health & safety procedures.

Skills

FLT licence

Physical fitness

Teamwork

Communication

Tools

FLT (Counterbalance/Reach)

Job description

Job Description:

Yard Operative (FLT) - Plant Nursery

Overview

We are seeking a reliable and hardworking Yard Operative with FLT experience to join a busy plant nursery operation. This role involves hands-on yard work, safe movement of stock using a forklift, and supporting daily nursery logistics to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate Counterbalance and/or Reach FLT to move plants, compost, pots, and other nursery stock around the yard.
• Load and unload deliveries, ensuring all items are handled safely and efficiently.
• Maintain yard organisation, keeping walkways, stock areas, and loading zones clear and tidy.
• Assist with general nursery duties including watering, picking, packing and preparing orders for dispatch.
• Conduct basic FLT safety checks and report any defects or maintenance needs.
• Support stock control by accurately moving, labelling, and storing products.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and follow all health & safety procedures.

Requirements

• Valid FLT licence (Counterbalance and/or Reach).
• Previous experience in a yard, warehouse, or outdoor manual role.
• Comfortable working in a physically active environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small team.
• Good communication skills and a positive, proactive attitude.
• Willingness to work outdoors and handle plant materials.

Desirable

• Experience working in a plant nursery, garden centre, or horticultural environment.
• Knowledge of basic plant care.
• Experience driving delivery vans.

Hours & Pay

• Monday to Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm (possible 7:30am start during busy season)
• 1-hour unpaid break
• Every other Saturday shift required (hours based on nursery schedule)
• Salary: £29,000 - £31,000 per annum, depending on experience

Location

Based at a large, well-established plant nursery site with on-site parking and easy access to main transport routes