Yard Associate - Forklift

JOB DESCRIPTION

Build More Than a Career. Build a Future.

At KENT , people don't just take jobs. They build careers.

Whether you're leading a team, serving customers, creating content, managing projects, or building expertise in your field, you'll find opportunities to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and grow your career. Many of our leaders started in frontline roles and advanced through experience, development, and hard work.

If you're looking for a place where your contribution matters, your growth is supported, and your work helps shape communities across Atlantic Canada, we'd love to hear from you.

Join one. Grow with many.

As a Lumber Yard Associate , you play a key role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of building materials throughout the yard and warehouse. You will provide exceptional customer service, maintain inventory accuracy, and uphold safety standards while operating forklifts and other equipment. This is a physically active role in a fast-paced retail environment, requiring attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Customer Service:

• Greet and assist customers with product inquiries, loading, and order fulfillment.
• Provide accurate information and arrange deliveries as needed.
• Prepare invoices, quotes, and delivery documentation.

Material Handling & Equipment Operation:

• Safely operate forklifts and other equipment to load, unload, replenish, and restock materials.
• Inspect and maintain equipment according to manufacturer guidelines and company policy.
• Receive and process inventory using the computerized system (D365).

Inventory & Merchandising:

• Maintain organized inventory and store standards.
• Replenish stock and support merchandising efforts.
• Write off damaged or stolen products in the system.

Safety & Training:

• Follow all safety protocols and procedures.
• Participate in department-specific training and learn about new products.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Safety-focused with a high attention to detail
• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs and perform physical tasks (standing, walking, lifting)
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Flexible availability for rotating shifts (days, evenings, weekends)
• Sales and customer service experience preferred
• Ability to learn and operate inventory systems (D365)

ABOUT US

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

ABOUT THE TEAM

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know-how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co-operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing