Bendrey Brothers Ltd. is a family run Timber Merchant situated between Bristol and Bath.
Job Title: Trade Counter Sales Assistant
Hours:
- Monday to Friday 08.00 – 17.00 (with a one hour unpaid lunch break)
- Saturdays 08.00 – 12.00
Position Overview
The Trade Counter Sales Assistant is the first point of contact for customers visiting, phoning, or emailing the business. The role involves assisting customers in identifying suitable products and materials, preparing quotations and orders, processing sales and payments, and providing a high standard of customer service.
The Trade Counter Sales Assistant is responsible for supporting customers throughout the sales process, from initial enquiry through to the collection of goods. This includes preparing customer orders, assisting with the picking of materials, and helping customers load goods safely into their vehicles. The role also supports stock control activities and helps maintain a safe, organised, and well-presented shop environment.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Strong communication skills and the ability to interact in a professional and courteous manner with colleagues & customers.
- Good attention to detail and a proactive, practical approach to tasks.
- Capable of lifting heavy items regularly and performing manual handling duties.
- Ability to understand customer requirements and assist in identifying suitable products and materials.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Basic numeracy and organisational skills.
Desirable Skills & Qualifications:
- Previous experience in a builders merchant, retail or customer service role is desirable.
- Familiarity with timber, fencing, landscaping, or building materials is advantageous but not essential.
Key responsibilities:
Customer Service & Sales
- Greet customers arriving at the trade counter and provide a professional and helpful service.
- Assist customers in identifying suitable products and materials based on their requirements.
- Respond to customer enquiries in person, by telephone, and by email in a timely and professional manner.
- Prepare quotations, process orders, and take customer payments using company systems and procedures.
- Promote additional products and services where appropriate to meet customer needs.
Order Processing & Customer Collections
- Support the preparation of customer orders for collection, ensuring materials supplied match the sales order or invoice.
- Assist customers in selecting, picking, and loading goods into their vehicles, ensuring safe handling procedures are followed.
- Work with the yard team where additional assistance, or forklift loading is required.
- Carry out basic timber cutting services as required, ensuring customer requirements are met safely and accurately.
Stock Control & Merchandising
- Monitor and replenish shop stock to maintain stock availability and presentation standards.
- Ensure product pricing and labelling remain accurate and up to date.
- Assist with stocktaking activities and report stock discrepancies, shortages, or damaged stock to management.
General Housekeeping
- Maintain clean, tidy, and presentable conditions within the shop, trade counter, and customer-facing areas.
- Dispose of waste materials, including packaging and banding, in the appropriate bins.
Health & Safety
- Follow all company health and safety procedures and risk assessments.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when required.
- Follow safe manual handling practices when moving or loading materials.
- Report hazards, accidents, or near misses promptly.
Security Awareness
- Remain aware of materials being collected or loaded by customers and ensure goods supplied correspond with the relevant sales order or invoice.
- Report any security concerns, discrepancies, or suspicious activity to management promptly.
Other Duties
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as requested by management to support the efficient operation of the business.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £14.56 per hour
Expected hours: 44.0 per week
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discount
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person