Who We Are
North West Timber Treatments Ltd is a well-established, family-owned timber and builders’ merchant operating across seven branches throughout the northwest. The company has experienced significant growth over the last few years and is looking forward to further growth in the years ahead.
We are looking for a friendly, dependable and customer-focused Trade Counter Assistant to join our team in Ashton-in-Makerfield. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working with customers, has good attention to detail and can thrive in a busy trade environment.
Previous experience within a timber or builders’ merchant would be beneficial, although full training will be provided to the right candidate.
Reports To
Branch Manager / Assistant Branch Manager
Job Purpose
The Trade Counter Assistant is responsible for providing excellent service to trade and retail customers, processing orders accurately and supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of the branch. The successful candidate will help customers identify suitable products, prepare quotations and ensure every customer receives a professional and efficient service.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIESCustomer Service and Sales
- Welcome customers and provide friendly, professional assistance.
- Serve customers at the trade counter and respond to telephone and email enquiries.
- Identify customers’ requirements and recommend suitable products.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with trade and retail customers.
- Promote relevant products, services and special offers.
- Resolve customer queries and concerns promptly and professionally.
Order Processing
- Prepare quotations and process customer orders accurately.
- Take payments and operate the till and card payment systems.
- Check product prices, stock availability and delivery information.
- Liaise with the yard and transport teams to coordinate collections and deliveries.
- Maintain accurate customer and transaction records.
- Process returns, refunds and account transactions in accordance with company procedures.
Stock and Merchandising
- Monitor stock levels and report shortages to the appropriate manager.
- Assist with stock checks and stock replenishment.
- Ensure trade counter displays are clean, organised and well stocked.
- Help maintain accurate product and pricing information.
- Support the receipt and checking of incoming goods when required.
Teamwork and Branch Support
- Work closely with colleagues across the trade counter, yard and delivery teams.
- Support the Branch Manager with the efficient operation of the branch.
- Maintain a clean, safe and welcoming trade counter environment.
- Follow all company health and safety policies and procedures.
- Undertake other reasonable duties to support the branch when required.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCEEssential
- Previous customer service, retail or sales experience.
- Confident and professional communication skills.
- Good numeracy and basic computer skills.
- Ability to process information and transactions accurately.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a busy team.
- A positive, dependable and customer-focused attitude.
Desirable
- Previous experience within a timber or builders’ merchant.
- Knowledge of timber, building materials or related products.
- Experience using an electronic point-of-sale or merchant management system.
- Experience serving trade customers.
- A valid forklift licence.
KEY SKILLS
- Excellent customer service
- Sales and product recommendation
- Strong communication
- Attention to detail
- Numeracy and computer literacy
- Organisation and time management
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Commercial awareness
What We Offer
- A permanent, full-time position within an established family business.
- A supportive and friendly working environment.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Workplace pension.
- Staff discount.
- Free car parking.
- Training and opportunities to develop within the company.
- Remote or hybrid working is not available for this role.
Pay: £32,000.00-£36,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- Store discount
Work Location: In person
