Returns Operative

Job Specification – Returns & Damages Operative

Location: Warehouse environment
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00am – 6:00pm
Pay Rate: £12.80 - £19.20 per hour
Overtime: Paid at time and a half

Job Overview

We are looking for a reliable, organised and detail-oriented Returns & Damages Operative to join a busy and fast-paced warehouse operation supporting a growing e-commerce and online retail business.

The successful candidate will be responsible for processing returned goods, inspecting items for damage, updating stock records and ensuring that all products are accurately recorded and handled in line with company procedures.

This role requires strong computer skills, good numerical ability and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while maintaining a high level of accuracy. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with warehouse management systems and spreadsheets in a team-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Process returned items accurately and efficiently in line with warehouse procedures.
• Inspect products for damage, defects or discrepancies and record findings accordingly.
• Update and maintain accurate records using warehouse management systems (WMS), spreadsheets and other computer-based programmes.
• Identify, categorise and report damaged, faulty or incorrect items.
• Ensure returned stock is processed, labelled and stored in the correct locations.
• Investigate stock discrepancies and escalate any issues to the relevant team leader or supervisor.
• Manage multiple tasks and computer systems simultaneously while maintaining accuracy.
• Follow manual handling procedures and maintain a safe, clean and organised working environment.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to meet daily operational targets and deadlines.
• Follow company policies and procedures to ensure returned goods are handled consistently and efficiently.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Computer Skills: Intermediate to advanced computer skills, with previous experience using Google Sheets, WPS Office, warehouse management systems (WMS) or similar software.
• Multitasking: Ability to work across multiple tasks, programmes and systems efficiently.
• Numeracy: Intermediate maths skills, with the ability to count stock, identify discrepancies and maintain accurate records.
• Communication: Good understanding of written and spoken English, with the ability to follow instructions and record information clearly.
• Attention to Detail: A high level of accuracy when inspecting products, processing returns and updating stock records.
• Physical Fitness: Physically capable of carrying out manual handling duties in a warehouse environment, following safe working practices.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team while also managing individual responsibilities.
• Organisation: Good time management skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience in a warehouse, returns department, quality control or stock control role.
• Experience handling e-commerce or online retail returns.
• Familiarity with product inspection, damage assessment and stock reconciliation.
• Previous use of warehouse management systems and spreadsheet-based stock records.

Working Environment

This is a hands-on role within a busy warehouse operation handling a high volume of products and returns. The successful candidate must be adaptable, proactive and comfortable working to deadlines while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

What We Offer

• £12.80 per hour.
• Monday to Friday working pattern, 10:00am – 6:00pm.
• Overtime opportunities paid at time and a half.
• The opportunity to develop experience within a fast-paced e-commerce and logistics environment.
• A supportive team environment with clear operational processes.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be dependable, computer-literate and confident handling stock records and product inspections. They will take pride in accurate work, demonstrate a practical and organised approach to problem-solving, and be able to maintain productivity and attention to detail during busy periods.

If you have strong computer skills, a keen eye for detail and enjoy working in a fast-paced warehouse environment, we would like to hear from you.

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