Job Description

We are currently looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our Desford team in the position of Despatch Operative on a Fixed Term Contract.



The role holder will play a safe and active part in the despatch process, ensuring lorries get loaded and the yard runs in an efficient manner. The role holder will be responsible for driving a FLT and loading fired, packaged bricks onto trucks/trailers. The role holder will be expected to support the whole despatch process, along with supporting the manufacturing facility when required.

Your duties would include but not limited to the following:

All duties listed must be carried out safely and effectively, work and adhere to Forterra health & safety zero harm policy.



Start of shift daily safety checks completed and any issues or defects reported immediately to the Shift Manager. Ensure all P.P.E is worn at all times. Ensure all housekeeping duties are carried out as and when required. Ensure the yard area is clean & tidy at all times. Report all irregularities/health & safety issues to Shift Manager. When entering any guarded area, LOTOTO must be followed, and relevant safe work procedure must be adhered to. Always follow risk assessments and SOP's provided for tasks. Undertake any relevant training as requested. Always follow Forterra's Golden Rules. Carry out a shift handover with the opposite shift. Always follow guidance indicated for vehicles & pedestrians on site. Adhere to site code of conduct. Drive FLT in accordance with best practice and in accordance with CTA or other recognized certificate/qualification. Ensure correct loads are loaded on to each truck, referring to loading ticket. Any damaged packs are to be repaired at the earliest opportunity. Off-load deliveries safely and move goods in to the correct storage areas. Support the manufacturing facility as required.

Under no circumstances should machinery be operated if any defects are found with either machinery or safety systems. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action.

About You:

The job requires no formal education or qualification, the role does require a minimum of 3 months training from competent operator ensuring close supervision during the period, and a competency check procedure carried out on all duties.

Training Requirements

Company Induction Competency Check Isolation Lock off (LOTOTO) training Silica Awareness training Spill kit Training Manual Handling Training Risk Assessment training PPE awareness and training (including face fit testing) Working Safely Training Accident/Incident Reporting Fire Awareness / Fire Extinguisher Noise Awareness FLT Training Ability to prioritise and work to tight deadlines Effective communication skills, both verbal and written Confident & outgoing personality Good knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook and MS teams

What We Can Offer You:

Competitive Salary and Benefits package Life Assurance and Company Pension Scheme up to 10% employer contribution Generous holiday allowance Gym benefit and Cycle 2 Work Scheme Access to Employee Assistance Programme for self and family members Employee Referral Scheme Service Awards Sharesave Scheme eligibility Holiday Exchange Scheme Financial Wellbeing Program Personal development and opportunities for progression

We are a leading manufacturer of a diverse and trusted range of concrete and clay building products used extensively within the construction sector, with instantly recognisable brands including Thermalite block, Bison Precast and the iconic London Brick.



Our complete product range comprises of clay bricks, aircrete blocks, aggregate blocks, precast concrete, flooring products, permeable paving and chimney, roofing, and flue systems.



Forterra's purpose is to build lasting legacies, manufacturing a range of products from the ground up to support customers with their construction projects.



We are proud to be at the forefront of the industries' safety standards and are committed to achieving zero harm in our workplaces.