Mission
Our mission is to create new products, to develop partnerships with new and existing customers and suppliers to guarantee the long-term sustainability of Avondale Foods as an organisation.
Job Position: Forklift Driver (Intake) Department: Service
Reports to: Internal Supply Chain Manager Hours: 40 hours per week (Sunday to Thursday
Scope of Role
Avondale Foods is a leading food processing company of Fresh and Chilled products supplying leading retail businesses such as Marks & Spencers, Morrison's and Waitrose in the UK.
This role involves supporting production departments by efficiently transferring and supplying the required produce. While the primary responsibility is operating a forklift, occasional manual handling tasks—such as unloading crates from lorries—are also part of the job. This position plays a key role in maintaining smooth production workflow and contributes to a clean working environment through proper disposal of company waste. As the first point of contact for all incoming ingredients, dry goods and other materials, the jobholder ensures timely and accurate handling of deliveries.
Key Responsibilities
* Unload and decant deliveries, reporting any quality issues immediately
* Book deliveries onto the warehouse management system and transfer goods throughout the factory
* Ensure all products are properly stored in designated areas with correct codes and labels
* Follow stock control procedures in chills and storage areas at all times
* Complete all documentation and update records to maintain traceability
* Carry out regular stock rotation
* Transfer required produce to production departments promptly
* Operate forklifts safely, keep them in good working order, and report any issues to the immediate department manager
* Maintain good housekeeping standards within the department and surrounding areas, including the yard
* Comply with company policies, including those related to food safety, health and safety, and absence
* Ensure Food Safety compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements to remain audit-ready at all times.
* Contribute to the development of a culture of Integrity, collaboration 'do the right thing' approach in all interactions.
Person Specification
Essential
* Valid Forklift licence
* Committed to maintaining precision in documentation, inventory handling, and process adherence
* Proven ability to manage workload effectively and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment
* Works independently with minimal supervision
* Flexible approach to working hours, including optional overtime
* Proficient in basic computer applications, including email, word processing, and spreadsheet software
* Basic knowledge of health and safety regulations in a warehouse or factory setting
* Ability to communicate effectively with team members and other departments
Desirable
* Minimum of 2 years fork lift driving experience in counter balance and reach
* Previous experience working in a food production environment
* Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise tasks
* Demonstrates self-motivation and proactive decision-making
* Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS)
* Manual handling training or certification
* Positive attitude and willingness to support other areas of the operation when required
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £13.50-£14.07 per hour
Benefits:
* Canteen
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Health & wellbeing programme
Work Location: In person