Buyer (Within Construction or Engineering)

Pertemps; Knaresborough; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A staffing agency is seeking a proactive Buyer to oversee the purchasing function in Knaresborough. You will manage supplier relationships, negotiate prices, and ensure effective stock control. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in purchasing, strong negotiation skills, and a detail-oriented approach. The position offers a temp-to-perm arrangement with a competitive hourly rate.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Buyer or Purchasing role.
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent organization and management of priorities.
• Good understanding of stock management and supply chain.
• High attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full purchasing cycle from orders to delivery.
• Source materials and services as per business needs.
• Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues.
• Maintain purchasing records for reporting.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Supply chain understanding

Proactive problem-solving

Tools

Microsoft Office

Purchasing systems

Job description

Buyer

Our client is seeking a proactive & highly organised Buyer to take full ownership of the purchasing function.

Job Details

• Working Hours: 08:30am - 5:00pm (30m unpaid lunch)
• Working Week: Monday to Friday
• Hourly Rate: £14.OOph - £16.5Oph
• Duration: Temp to Perm (Between 12-15 weeks)
• Location: Knaresborough, HG5

Purchasing & Procurement

• Manage the full purchasing cycle, from raising purchase orders to delivery confirmation.
• Source required materials, equipment, and services in line with business needs.
• Ensure cost-effective purchasing while maintaining compliance with company standards.
• Work with external procurement teams to support larger project requirements.

Supplier Management

• Liaise daily with suppliers to negotiate pricing, lead times, and terms.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliability and quality.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any issues proactively.
• Seek out alternative suppliers to improve value, quality, or service levels.

Stock & Inventory Control

• Oversee stock flow, intake, and availability across all departments.
• Ensure critical stock levels maintained to avoid operational delays.
• Coordinate closely with warehouse and operational teams on deliveries and stock usage.
• Maintain accurate stock and purchasing records for finance and reporting purposes.

Financial & Administrative Duties

• Work closely with the Finance team to ensure accurate costings and budget alignment.
• Support invoice reconciliation and resolve discrepancies with suppliers.
• Provide purchasing reports, spend analysis, and forecasting where required.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in a Buyer or Purchasing role (ideally in technical, engineering, or related sectors).
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent organisation with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Good understanding of supply chain processes and stock management.
• Confident using purchasing systems, and Microsoft Office platforms.
• High attention to detail and a proactive problem-solving mindset.

Desirable

• Experience within fire, security, electrical, or engineering industries.
• Knowledge of industry-specific components or suppliers.
• Previous experience supporting project procurement.