Forklift Operator / Maintenance Operator NIGHTSHIFTS (Timber Processing) - Lockerbie, Scotland
Temp to Perm Opportunity
Forklift requirement covers Counterbalance, with an accredited UK licence (e.g., RTITB/ITSSAR).
Role supports a timber processing site.
Company Overview
This is the UK's largest purpose-built shed and fencing mill, positioned close to major UK forestry plantations to process harvested timber quickly.
The site specialises in converting raw timber into key components such as fencing slats, shed boards, battens, featheredge timber and fence posts, supporting an integrated supply chain through to manufacturing and distribution.
Forest Garden also highlights its focus on responsible sourcing, with industry coverage noting it mainly uses FSC®-certified UK-grown timber sawn at its Lockerbie sawmill as part of its sustainability commitments.
Role Summary
The Forklift Operator will ensure the safe and accurate movement, storage, and supply of materials to support production. You'll help maintain stock accuracy, ensure goods are correctly received and dispatched, and keep warehouse areas organised and compliant with site standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate forklift trucks safely to move raw materials and processed timber goods across site.
- Load/unload vehicles and verify deliveries against paperwork (e.g., delivery notes, PO lines).
- Supply production lines with materials in line with schedules and production requests.
- Put away stock into correct locations, maintaining clear labelling and traceability (batch/lot where applicable).
- Facilities cleaning of the Mill at night.
- Complete inventory transactions and support cycle counts/stock takes.
- Carry out daily FLT checks, report defects.
- Identify and escalate stock discrepancies, damaged goods, or quality concerns promptly.
- Maintain housekeeping/5S standards in warehouse and external storage areas.
Work collaboratively with Production, Quality, and Logistics teams to meet site KPIs.
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Valid accredited FLT licence (Counterbalance) with confident practical experience.
- Previous experience in a warehouse/manufacturing environment (ideally 1+ year).
- Good attention to detail and basic numeracy/literacy (checking counts, labels, paperwork).
- Basic IT skills (scanners/WMS; ability to record movements accurately).
- Physically able to undertake manual handling and be on your feet for extended periods.
- Right to work in the UK.
Preferred
- Experience in timber manufacturing
- Experience with SAP or similar stock control systems.
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
- Manufacturing/warehouse environment with PPE required (safety footwear, hi-vis, eye protection as required).
- Manual handling forms part of the role.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- You must follow all site safety rules and HSE standards, operate MHE responsibly, report near-misses/hazards immediately, and participate in safety briefings and training.
