Buyer

Whitehouse Construction Co Ltd; Chichester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Civil Engineering firm is seeking an experienced Buyer to join their team in Ashbourne. You will be instrumental in sourcing and procuring materials for various civil engineering projects, ensuring quality and timely delivery. Candidates should have proven buying experience in construction, strong negotiation skills, and a solid understanding of supply chain management. We offer a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Company pension

Bonus scheme

Health and wellbeing program

Electric car scheme

Free parking

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar buying role within the civil engineering or construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of construction materials relevant to civil engineering.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate and procure materials for projects.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers for competitive pricing.
• Monitor compliance with health & safety and sustainability standards.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Supply chain management

Organizational skills

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Job description

Whitehouse Construction is a leading Civil Engineering SME.

We are a family run business directly employing our entire workforce on a PAYE basis, recognising that our people make our business the success it is today.

We are looking for an experiencedBuyerto join our Buying Team on a permanent basis inAshbourne.

As a Buyer you will play a crucial role in ensuring our supply chain operations run smoothly ensuring best value, quality, and timely delivery in line with project specifications and programmes. This role is pivotal in supporting the delivery of infrastructure schemes safely, efficiently, and profitably. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Source, negotiate and procure materials and consumables for live and upcoming civil engineering projects.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and subcontractors to ensure competitive pricing and reliable service.
• Ensure materials meet the required technical specifications and quality standards.
• Monitor material stock levels and manage just-in-time delivery to minimise site storage and reduce waste.
• Raise purchase orders and ensure procurement aligns with project budgets, timelines, and procurement schedules.
• Evaluate supplier performance and maintain approved supplier lists.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through alternative products or supply chain strategies.
• Work closely with site managers, engineers, and quantity surveyors to understand project needs and resolve any supply issues.
• Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, prices, deliveries, and supplier communications.
• On occasion, support pre-construction teams with pricing and material availability during tender processes.
• Monitor compliance with health & safety, environmental and sustainability standards in the supply chain.

Experience:

• Proven experience in a similar buying role within the civil engineering or construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of construction materials relevant to civil engineering (e.g. concrete, steel, aggregates, geotextiles, drainage products, etc.).
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Good understanding of supply chain management and cost control principles.
• Commercial awareness and ability to work within tight budgets and deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

We are believers in the Living Wage and are an Equal Opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all sectors of the community.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work on varied and complex civil engineering schemes.
• Supportive working environment with ongoing training and development.
• Career progression within a growing and respected business.
• An attractive remuneration package, including competitive salary, company pension, bonus scheme, and comprehensive benefits such as sickness income protection, health and wellbeing program, electric car scheme, free parking etc.