Full-Time Yard Assistant - Machinery Saleground

Posted: Fri 26 Apr 2024

We are looking for a Full-time Yard Assistant who would be based at our Auction Saleground in Sutton, near Ely, Cambridgeshire.

Why Cheffins?
Cheffins is a privately owned independent partnership and one that believes interviews are life-changing events. 
We focus on fair and objective hiring, we work hard to create and maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment that embraces the uniqueness and value that each person can bring to the business. We want everyone to be themselves.

This is a great opportunity to join the auction team at the Cambridge Machinery Sales where the largest monthly agricultural machinery auction in Europe operates, exporting to over 50 countries annually. You would be a key member of the team who are committed to providing a high level of customer service to our clients. This is a hands on role and you will be working alongside colleagues assisting with the set-up of the monthly machinery sales at the saleground.

Our Values:
Welcoming, we’re friendly and make everyone - without exception - feel safe, included, valued and at home at Cheffins. 
Considered, we provide effective advice and support to our clients and colleagues.  We’re open-minded and considerate of people’s experiences and stories.   
Committed, we care about our work, clients, colleagues, communities, and the environment.  We always act with respect, kindness and responsibility.
Knowledgeable, our staff combine technical and market expertise with a willingness to listen and fully consider people’s views, values and ideas.

How we will reward you?
We offer a competitive salary and rewards package including,

• 23 days annual leave, plus bank holidays with entitlement increasing with length of service
• All offices shut down over Christmas and the New Year as we recognise that our people need a break
• Long Service Awards
• Annual All Staff Reward scheme
• Contributory Pension 
• Health Cash Plan through Medicash, with a focus on Wellbeing (including, complimentary therapies, skinvision, digital physiotherapy, health & stress support, virtual GP, mProve yourself, gym discount and discounted shopping)
• Life Assurance
• Optical cover
• Payment for professional memberships and development opportunities
• Menopause policy
• Employee Volunteering days
• Family friendly policies

Our focus is to encourage you to continue with your learning and development and we are committed in supporting you to be the very best version of yourself to help you achieve and fulfil your potential.

Social events include Christmas and Summer get togethers, charity events, team building opportunities, we actively encourage our people to gain life experiences. 

What will it take to be successful?

• Self-motivated and someone that enjoys working as part of a team and independently
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to establish strong interpersonal relationships with team members
• Enjoy meeting new people with a passion to provide a high level of customer care, as this is a customer focused role
• It would be great if you had a genuine interest in agricultural machinery or a farming background.
• Enjoy working in an outside environment
• Ability to organise workload to meet deadlines

What will you be doing?

You would be part of a hardworking team who play an integral part in setting up the monthly auctions, which consist of tractors, implements, ground care equipment, plant and machinery.  You would also undertake general yard duties to ensure the working environment remains safe and well presented at all times. This is a hands on role and you will be working alongside colleagues assisting with the set up of the monthly Machinery and Vintage auctions, both held at our Saleground.

Main purpose/scope of the role:

• Gate Security – responsible for checking all vehicles entering and leaving the saleground
• General yard duties to include upkeep of the saleground to provide a welcoming, safe and secure environment, carrying out regular safety checks of equipment used
• Assisting with washing and cleaning of machinery equipment in preparation for export.
• Preparation of the saleground for auction and viewing days
• Being part of a driving team on Auction days for the tractor drive through section of the sale
• Operating the live online bidding platform
• Cataloguing and lotting items for auction
• Photography of lots for the on-line catalogue and assist with social media and general marketing
• Dealing with pre and post auction enquiries from vendors and purchasers, face to face and via telephone and email
• General administrative duties to support the department

What happens next?

This role could be the best move you make.  Take your time to apply.  Be honest and tell us all about who you are, what motivates you, your life experiences and what you would like Cheffins to offer you.

Before we get to meet you, take your time to look at our website and learn a bit about Cheffins.  Think about what you have achieved and how that fits with the role and person we are looking for. 

The interview will not be an interrogation, it will be relaxed and an opportunity for us to learn about you and for you to learn about us.  

We look forward to receiving your application.  Please note applications submitted without a covering letter and completed application form will not be considered.