Buyer (Within Construction Or Engineering)

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

Job summary

A staffing agency is seeking a proactive Buyer to manage the purchasing function, overseeing procurement activities and supplier relationships. The ideal candidate will work independently while maintaining strong communication with finance and operational teams. This role offers a temporary to permanent position based in Knaresborough with a competitive hourly rate.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Buyer or Purchasing role, ideally in technical or related sectors.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills are essential.
• Excellent organization with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full purchasing cycle and supplier relationships.
• Oversee stock flow and maintain accurate purchasing records.
• Work closely with Finance for budget alignment and costings.

Skills

Proven experience in a Buyer or Purchasing role

Strong negotiation skills

Excellent organization

Good understanding of supply chain processes

Confident using purchasing systems

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position: Buyer

Our client is seeking a proactive & highly organised Buyer to take full ownership of the purchasing function. This is a standalone role responsible for managing end-to-end procurement activity, supplier relationships, and stock flow across the business. The ideal candidate will be confident working independently while maintaining strong communication with the Finance team and wider operational departments.

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 are 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