Purchasing Assistant - 1571

Thorlabs; Ely; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading optical technology company in Ely is seeking a Purchasing Assistant to support the Tables Business Unit in ensuring timely supply chain operations and data accuracy. The ideal candidate will have experience with ERP systems and strong analytical skills. This hybrid position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits, including training opportunities and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Customised training and development

Free onsite parking

Competitive salary

Excellent benefits package

Qualifications

• Experience in production planning or purchasing is beneficial.
• Familiar with flow-based production principles and kanban concepts is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Maintain regular contact with suppliers for accurate delivery dates.
• Run purchasing reports to ensure accurate data communication.
• Monitor low stock reports for procurement activities.
• Collaborate with planning team for supply chain needs.

Skills

Experience using ERP/MRP systems (ideally Microsoft D365)

Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office

Experience in data analysis and Microsoft Excel

Good understanding of LEAN manufacturing techniques

Detail oriented

Strong problem solving skills

Ability to multitask and time manage

Job description

What is the job?

We’re looking for a Purchasing Assistant to directly collaborate with and support the Tables Business Unit buyers to ensure our supply chain delivers to schedule; the accuracy of data between purchase orders and supplier confirmations is of good quality; and drive any identified areas for continuous improvement, in line with our best practice lean methodologies.

Working Hours:

Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (Hybrid working available)

Department:

Tables

Interview process:

2 stage process following shortlisting –

First stage: 30 minute Teams interview

Second stage: Onsite 1 hour interview

Who we are?

Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

Where you will be working?

It’s a hybrid role, working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely as well as your home. Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful medieval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

What is essential to us…

• Experience using ERP/MRP systems (ideally Microsoft D365)
• Strong knowledge of, and background using Microsoft Office
• Experience in data analysis and Microsoft Excel is highly desirable
• A good understanding of LEAN manufacturing techniques, training available through employment
• Detail oriented and able to work in a structured and organised manner
• Strong computer literacy and understanding of ERP systems (D365)
• A competent problem solver who takes strong ownership of tasks
• Ability to multitask, time manage and work independently
• Experience in production planning or purchasing would be beneficial
• Familiar with flow-based production principles, pull systems, and kanban concepts is highly desirable

What we would like you to do/ to see…

• Maintain regular contact with suppliers to ensure accurate delivery dates
• Regularly run purchasing reports to ensure accurate data is communicated to the planning and operational teams
• Monitor low stock reports to ensure procurement activities are in place
• Collaborate with the planning team to support any pull in/push out needs against component requirements within the supply chain
• Review and investigate any supplier invoice queries
• Prepare and submit specific vendor monthly metrics
• Support with placing purchase orders when required
• Support with MRP/ERP data maintenance
• Use lean manufacturing methodologies to identify opportunities to improve material flow within the supply chain
• Attend supplier meetings alongside buyers, either on-site or by travelling

What will you get?

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

And the benefits are?

Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

Job Reference:

THOR-VC-1571

This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.

***This is a legal requirement, further information is here School leaving age - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)***

This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

-Contributed Pension Scheme -Group Life Cover -Private Health Care -Group Income Protection & more.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail [e-mail].

We are Disability Confident Committed

In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.