Works Operative

  • Reed Specialist Recruitment
  • City, Leeds
  • Jan 01, 2026
Full time Manufacturing

Job Description

A great opportunity has arisen for an experienced, motivated works operative to join the despatch team, supporting the safe handling, packing, and shipment products for a world renowned manufacturer.

Key Responsibilities

  • Pick, pack, palletise, and label orders in line with customer and carrier requirements.
  • Book transport and create despatch documentation (courier bookings, labels, manifests).
  • Prepare export documentation as required (commercial invoices, packing lists, SDS references).
  • Load/unload vehicles safely using forklift trucks (where licensed).
  • Support internal audits and corrective actions
  • Operate ERP/warehouse systems for booking, issuing, and inventory movements.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organised workplace using 5S standards.
  • Follow SOPs and risk assessments (COSHH, manual handling, PPE).
  • Report hazards, incidents, and near misses; contribute to continuous improvement.
  • Safely operate material handling equipment and adhere to site traffic management rules.
  • Work closely with Production, Quality, Customer Service, and Logistics.
  • Support training of colleagues and participate in cross-functional problem-solving.

Beneficial Skills / Experience:

  • Counterbalance Forklift licence (in-date) and confident, safe operation.
  • Warehouse/Despatch experience, ideally in FMCG, chemicals, or food-grade environments.
  • Experience with ERP/WMS systems (e.g., booking stock, picking lists, despatch modules).
  • Strong attention to detail; accurate data entry and documentation.
  • Good numeracy and literacy; able to interpret work orders, labels, and specifications.
  • Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling (with appropriate aids provided).
  • Basic understanding of export/logistics

Additional Details:

  • Full-time position: 35 hours per week
  • Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Bonus scheme
  • 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays and additional time off at Christmas
  • Defined contribution pension scheme
  • Life assurance
  • Private healthcare
  • Free on-site parking
  • On-site canteen
  • Company events
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Free flu vaccinations
  • Health & wellbeing programme
  • Sick pay