Materials and Services Buying - Industrial Placement

MWH Treatment Limited; Hattersley; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water industry contractor in the UK is seeking an Industrial Placement in Procurement to gain practical experience in materials and services buying. The role involves supporting procurement activities, supplier engagement, and data reporting. Ideal candidates are currently studying a relevant degree and possess strong organisational and analytical skills. This opportunity offers mentorship and the chance to contribute to real projects in a collaborative team environment.

Benefits

Exposure to procurement and category management

Mentorship from experienced professionals

Real project involvement

Qualifications

• Currently studying a relevant degree.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Support reporting and analytics for category performance.
• Prepare and process purchase orders.
• Assist with tender documentation and bid evaluations.
• Monitor supplier performance.
• Maintain data in procurement systems.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Analytical mindset

Teamwork

Education

Currently studying degree in Business, Supply Chain, or Procurement

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

We are strengthening our Central Procurement team to maintain high standards of governance, efficiency, and strategic alignment. To support this, we are recruiting an Industrial Placement – Materials and Services Buying, based at our Hattersley Office.

Why Choose MWH?

Its your career, lets shape it together! We pride ourselves on putting people first with an inclusive and rewarding culture where success is recognised. Dedicated to attracting, retaining and enabling the development of our graduates to maximise potential. The graduate programme is tailored to your needs with a flexible and varied learning environment, you’ll feel empowered to make decisions and harness your knowledge and practical skills. The sky’s the limit!

Grow with us! As a growing company within the RSK group, we can offer a multitude of opportunities. MWH Treatment is preparing to play its part as one of the UK’s leading Design and Build Contractors in the Water Industry. In response to the growing demand to improve further the UK water quality in our rivers and bathing waters amongst other challenges, the investment in the water industry is far exceeding any other time. MWH Treatment, as part of the RSK group, specialise in creating and providing practical, sustainable outcomes. Our engineers pioneer and perfect solutions. The variety of work we offer provides a platform for you to develop and master your subject to build a fruitful and purposeful career.

What will you be doing?

This placement offers an excellent opportunity for an undergraduate student to gain practical experience in procurement and supply chain management.

• Support reporting and analytics for category performance (spend, savings, supplier KPIs)
• Prepare and process purchase orders, ensuring timely delivery.
• Assist with tender documentation and bid evaluations.
• Monitor supplier performance and elevate issues where necessary.
• Maintain clean and accurate data in procurement systems (P2P).
• Contribute to sustainability and compliance initiatives.
• Provide administrative support and assist with audits.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects and share best practices.

As a Junior Buyer, you will support the central procurement team in sourcing materials and services, assisting with category management activities, and learning how procurement drives value, mitigates risk, and supports operational efficiency.

Reporting to the Central Procurement Manager, you will assist in:

• Supporting Category Management: Help maintain category data and support sourcing activities.
• Tendering & Negotiation: Learn how to prepare RFQs, collate bids, and assist in evaluations.
• Supplier Engagement: Support communication with suppliers and help monitor performance.
• Data & Reporting: Maintain accurate procurement records and contribute to reporting.
• Process Improvement: Assist in implementing best practices and compliance initiatives.

What’s in it for me?

• Practical experience in procurement and category management.
• Exposure to tendering, supplier management, and compliance processes.
• Development of negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Reporting and Presentation Skills focused on supplier performance and supply chain risk mitigation.
• Mentorship from experienced procurement professionals.
• Opportunity to contribute to real projects and make an impact.

Sounds Good?

What I need to be considered?

Essential

• Currently studying a degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, or related discipline.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Desirable

• Interest in procurement, supply chain, or commercial management.
• Familiarity with ERP or procurement systems.
• Previous work experience in a business environment (placement or internship).

What happens next?

Apply – Our dedicated early careers recruiter will review your application and be in touch.

Timeframe – Within 4 weeks you will hear if you've been successful to the next stage.

Process – You will be invited to complete a video interview, followed by an in person or Teams interview with two of our hiring managers. You will be given the opportunity to come and meet the team in office or on site. It’s important to us that you are given every opportunity to know you’re making the right choice for you and your career.