Assistant Buyer

Cavendish Professionals; Costessey; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing procurement firm located in Costessey, England is seeking an Assistant Fabrication / Engineering Buyer to support the Procurement Manager in sourcing bespoke components. This role provides a development opportunity with the potential for greater responsibility. The ideal candidate should have strong analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Responsibilities include sourcing, evaluating suppliers, and maintaining documentation.

Qualifications

• Experience or familiarity in procurement systems and processes is desirable.
• Competence in compiling documentation for RFQs and tender processes.
• IT literacy and the ability to quickly learn new software systems.

Responsibilities

• Support the Procurement Manager in sourcing and costing bespoke components.
• Assist in identifying suitable suppliers and sourcing new vendors.
• Evaluate supplier quotations to identify the most suitable options.

Skills

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings

Strong analytical skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel

Job description

Overview

The Assistant Fabrication / Engineering Buyer will work closely with and provide support to the Procurement Manager in the sourcing and costing of bespoke fabricated parts, fittings, fixings, and stock components—primarily for seating projects, but with scope to support other areas as needed.

This role presents a valuable development opportunity, with the aim of progressing towards greater responsibility (potentially taking on full ownership within 6-12 months) as the business continues to grow and implement new systems.

Responsibilities

• Support the Procurement Manager in sourcing and costing bespoke non-stock components, including fabricated parts and associated fittings/fixings.
• Assist in identifying suitable suppliers—leveraging existing relationships while also sourcing new vendors where appropriate.
• Collate technical and design information to prepare and issue RFQs/ITTs to suppliers.
• Evaluate supplier quotations and tender responses to identify the most suitable options.
• Raise and reconcile purchase orders, maintaining accurate documentation throughout.
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure timely and accurate delivery of goods for both project installations and rental stock.
• Maintain effective communication with internal departments including Technical Services, Design, and Operations.

Knowledge Required

Experience or familiarity in the following areas is desirable (though not essential):

• Procurement systems and processes
• Engineering or fabrication environments
• Construction materials, particularly metals
• Steel structures and fabrication methods

Skills & Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess some or all of the following:

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and performance specifications
• Competence in compiling documentation for RFQs and tender processes
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating supplier quotations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
• IT literacy and the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software systems