Warehouse Operative – Ministry of Justice (UK Civil Service)
The UK Ministry of Justice is recruiting a Warehouse Operative to join the National Distribution Centre in Branston, Burton-on-Trent. This is a full-time permanent Civil Service role offering strong job security, excellent benefits, and a competitive pension scheme.
This opportunity is suitable for individuals who are physically fit, organised, and able to work in a fast-paced warehouse environment.
Job Details
Location: National Distribution Centre (NDC), Branston, Burton-on-Trent, DE14 3EG
Salary: £25,582 per year
Employer: Ministry of Justice
Job Grade: Administrative Officer (AO)
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-time
Vacancies: 1
Application Deadline: 16 March 2026
About the Role
The National Distribution Centre (NDC) manages the collection, storage, and delivery of goods across prisons in England and Wales. The facility stores internally manufactured goods, raw materials, prisoner property, mattresses, footwear, and documents.
The warehouse is a modern 135,000 sq. ft. high-bay logistics facility capable of storing over 16,500 pallets and supporting nationwide logistics operations.
As a Warehouse Operative, you will assist in receiving, storing, picking, packing, and dispatching goods, ensuring efficient warehouse operations.
Working Hours
Monday – Thursday: 08:00 – 16:00
Friday: 08:00 – 15:30
Occasional weekend work and overtime may be required depending on operational demands.
Key Responsibilities
• Reporting to the Warehouse Team Leader at the start of each shift
• Conducting daily checks on mechanical handling equipment
• Loading and unloading vehicles and containers
• Palletising, shrink wrapping, and preparing stock
• Checking and recording incoming goods
• Picking, checking, and packing customer orders
• Moving stock safely within the warehouse
• Carrying out stock counts and inventory checks
• Maintaining accurate records and documentation
• Keeping the warehouse clean and organised
• Reporting stock discrepancies or equipment faults immediately
Mechanical Handling Equipment (Training Provided)
Successful candidates may receive training to operate:
• Low Level Order Picking Truck
• Powered Pallet Truck
• Pedestrian Operated Stacker Truck
• High Level Reach Forklift Truck
• Counter Balance Forklift Truck
• High Level Narrow Aisle Forklift Truck
• Floor Sweeping Machine
• Floor Scrubbing Machine
Essential Requirements
• Physically fit and able to perform manual tasks including lifting
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Good organisational and record-keeping skills
• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision
Desirable Experience
• Previous warehouse experience
• Picking and packing experience
• Mechanical Handling Equipment (MHE) experience
Application Process
Recruitment will follow the Civil Service Success Profiles Framework.
Application Stage
Applicants must submit:
• CV
• Statement of Suitability (100 – 250 words)
• Experience question response
Example question:
Tell us about a time you worked in a fast-paced warehouse or similar environment where a team member was struggling to keep up. What did you do and what was the outcome?
Interview Stage
Shortlisted candidates will attend an in-person interview at the National Distribution Centre in Branston.
The interview will assess the following behaviours:
• Managing a Quality Service
• Delivering at Pace
• Working Together
Benefits
• Salary of £25,582 per year
• Civil Service pension with 28.97% employer contribution
• Annual leave and public holidays
• Access to learning and development opportunities
• Inclusive and supportive workplace culture
• Flexible working options
• Season ticket travel advance
Eligibility
This role is open to:
• UK nationals
• Irish nationals
• Commonwealth citizens with the right to work in the UK
• EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status
• Individuals with valid UK work authorization
Successful applicants must pass security and background checks.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official Ministry of Justice recruitment portal.
