Procurement Apprentice

DEA Aviation Ltd.; Retford; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aviation company is offering a Procurement Apprenticeship at their Gamston site starting January 2026. The role involves supporting the procurement team, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. The apprenticeship provides a qualification and in-depth knowledge of supply chain functions. Key skills include adaptability, communication, and attention to detail. Benefits include onsite parking and a company pension.

Benefits

Onsite parking

Free parking

Company Pension

Cycle to work Scheme

Perkbox Savings Scheme

Bupa Healthcare

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for stakeholder interactions.
• Ability to switch priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail due to regulatory requirements in aviation.

Responsibilities

• Assist with requesting quotes and negotiating prices for aircraft parts.
• Ensure all items are purchased from approved suppliers.
• Comply with procurement procedures and propose improvements.

Skills

Adaptability

Communication

Teamwork

Initiative

Attention to detail

Job description

Procurement Apprentice

Department: Engineering

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Gamston Airport, Retford

Reporting To: Lee Wilkinson

Description

DEA Group is recruiting a Procurement Apprentice to start in January 2026 at our Gamston site. This opportunity offers not only a Procurement and Supply Assistant (CIPS Level 3) qualification but also provides in-depth knowledge of the supply chain function within the Aerospace industry. As part of this apprenticeship standard students will study modules covering the following syllabus.

• Procurement & supply environments
• Ethical procurement & supply
• Contract administration
• Team dynamics & change
• Socially responsible procurement

By undertaking this apprenticeship, you will become part of a small procurement team supporting bases both local and international. Initially, daily tasks will be focused on the indirect requirements of the business needs. Working with the procurement manager to develop contracts with key suppliers. Before being tasked to work within the regulations specified for a CAA Part 145 maintenance and repair organisation (MRO). Providing direct support to the engineering function assisting in maintaining the operational readiness of the DEA aircraft fleet.

Monitoring and actioning purchase requisitions, carry out market testing selecting the best value option.

Assisting senior team members with developing and raising tenders, evaluating responses, negotiating contract terms, placing purchase orders and monitoring supplier performance.

Ensuring accurate data is maintained across all platforms including MRP/SAGE/Credit card statements.

Maintaining stock levels for indirect goods integral to the engineering function, identifying areas of improvement.

Carry out market research to identify new suppliers, follow through the onboarding process, gaining approval from the quality compliance team.

Develop a knowledge of various Aviation Authorities (CAA/FAA/EASA) and the certification required for each.

Engage with both internal and external stakeholders, identifying key needs and developing relationships accordingly.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the requesting of quotes and negotiating of best price and lead time for all aircraft parts / consumables / tools / test equipment.
• Ensure all items are purchased from approved suppliers.
• Assist Procurement Manager in working closely with Base Maintenance Manager / Logistics Manager / Maintenance Planner to ensure all items ordered remain in budget control.
• Ensure Purchase Requisitions / Purchase Orders are raised as required.
• Ensure the Logistics Department is aware of purchased parts to enable Customs Clearance and delivery of items.
• Observe all health and safety procedures and processes and an active part in continuous improvement.
• Comply with Procurement procedures, policies and guidelines (PPGs) for all tasks carried out. Propose amendments where errors found, processes change or improvements identified.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Adaptability – Due to the fast-paced nature of DEA delivery you will be required to switch priorities daily.
• Communication – Strong written and verbal communication skills are vital for working with stakeholders.
• Teamwork – Working within a small team, collaborative working is required to maintain operational readiness.
• Initiative – Within the department we champion individual ideas, if you have a thought to make things better, we are open to hearing it.
• Attention to detail – Aviation as an industry is heavily regulated so attention to detail is an essential skill.

Job Benefits

• Onsite parking
• Free parking
• Company Pension
• Cycle to work Scheme
• Perkbox Savings Scheme
• Bupa Healthcare