Buyer

Smart4 Energy; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organisation in precision engineering is seeking an experienced Buyer to join its Procurement team. The ideal candidate will have a mechanical engineering background and strong negotiation skills to drive cost-effective procurement strategies. Responsibilities include sourcing suppliers, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance with company policies. This role requires a minimum of 5 years' experience in procurement management within a technical environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of procurement management experience in a technical or mechanical environment.
• Mechanical Engineering background with machinist experience preferred.
• 5+ years of material handling and inventory management experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies to drive cost-effectiveness.
• Source and qualify suppliers locally and internationally.
• Negotiate contracts and maintain strong supplier relationships.

Skills

Strong negotiation and contract management skills

Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project)

Technical knowledge of machinery, equipment, and materials

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Results-driven and detail-oriented

Education

Matric plus a National Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Job Title: Buyer – Mechanical & Precision Engineering

Industry: Precision Engineering / Mechanical Manufacturing

Location: Cape Town

About the Role

A leading organisation in the precision engineering industry is seeking a skilled and experienced Buyer to join its Procurement team. Reporting to the Financial Executive, this role is ideal for a technically minded procurement professional with strong negotiation skills and a background in mechanical or precision engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies to drive cost-effectiveness, supplier reliability, and product quality.
• Source and qualify suppliers locally and internationally, optimising supply chains through alternative sources.
• Negotiate contracts and maintain strong supplier relationships, including SLAs and compliance agreements.
• Manage inventory levels, budgets, and material handling to ensure uninterrupted production.
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve operational/vendor issues to maintain efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and government regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across procurement processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Matric plus a National Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or related field.
• Mechanical Engineering background with machinist experience preferred.
• Minimum 5 years’ procurement management experience in a technical or mechanical environment, ideally in precision engineering.
• 5+ years of material handling and inventory management experience.
• Proficiency in English (verbal and written).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project) and ERP systems.
• Technical knowledge of machinery, equipment, and materials.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Results-driven, proactive, and detail-oriented team player.