Forklift Driver - Aviation

Optime Group

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Harmondsworth, England, UK on site Until 9/12/2026 First posted July 14, 2026 Last posted July 14, 2026
Job description

Optime Group are excited to be recruiting for Forklift Drivers to join a well-respected and successful client in Heathrow.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to additional security checks required for this role, successful applicants MUST have lived in the UK for the last 5 years, with 3 years full UK history.

MUST have valid Forklift certificate – counterbalanced

What’s on offer:

  • Rate of Pay: £13.50 per hour,
  • Shifts: 2 days, 2 nights, 2 off -and 4 on 4 off (mostly nights)
  • Shift pattern: 4 ON / 2 OFF OR 4 ON / 4 OFF) Candidates must be flexible to work both days and nights.
  • Shifts starting at 08:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 16:00 / 20:00 / 21:00 /22:00 / 23:00.
  • Weekly Pay (every Friday)
  • Full training provided
  • Temp to Perm (performance-based)

Key Duties:

  • Load and unload vehicles carrying a wide range of cargo using forklift trucks and other mechanical handling equipment, as well as undertaking manual handling duties where required.
  • Use hand-held scanning devices to accurately locate, identify, and track cargo.
  • Complete and process all associated paperwork in line with client and operational requirements.
  • Handle special cargo products in accordance with specific handling procedures and safety standards.
  • Build and break down pallets to meet storage and distribution needs.
  • Carry out manual handling tasks safely and in line with health & safety guidelines.
  • Prepare, secure, and palletise cargo as required for storage or onward transport.

Shifts:

The Airport is operational 7 days per week and candidates will be working on a 4 on 2 off rolling rota and you will need to be fully flexible with the days and hours you can work. This could be subject to change!

An example of the shift hours:

  • 2 Days followed by 2 Nights, then 2 Off Days.
    • Shifts starting at 08:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 16:00 / 20:00 / 21:00 /22:00 / 23:00.


Requirements:

  • Must be able to work both days and nights.
  • Must hold a valid Forklift certificate - Counterbalanced.
  • Must hold a valid Passport or Driving Licence /Birth Certificate or National ID card.
  • This role requires you to stand for long periods of time (8 hours).
  • UK Settled Status (If applicable).
  • Proof of National Insurance.
  • Proof of (current) Address.
  • 5 Year Address History.
  • 5 Year Work Reference History.
  • Successful candidates will be required to complete a basic criminal record check following the interview in line with CAA requirements.


Please note: As this is an airport role, successful candidates must pass security checks in-line with CAA regulations. These checks include 5-year work and address history, DBS (must have no disqualifying criminal convictions), valid Right to Work.

For an opportunity to join this fantastic business, please submit your CV to apply today!

Optime Group is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

About this role

Summary

Operate forklifts, load/unload cargo, ensure safety, and handle documentation at Heathrow.

Job title

Forklift Driver - Aviation

Experience level

null

Industry

aviation

Location requirements

Harmondsworth, UK; remote work not allowed

Salary

£13.50 per hour, shifts vary

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

forklift certificatepassport or driving licensecriminal record check

Preferred skills

None specified

Specializations

forkliftcargo handlingmanual handlingstoragescanning
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Harmondsworth, West Drayton, UK

On-site City