Buyer - Mechanical

The Legends Agency; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment firm is seeking a Buyer for Mechanical & Precision Engineering in South Africa's Wes-Kaap. The role involves overseeing procurement processes and supplier management to ensure cost-effectiveness. Candidates should possess 5+ years of procurement management experience and ideally have a mechanical engineering background. Excellent negotiation skills are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years procurement management experience in a technical or mechanical environment.
• Mechanical Engineering background with machinist experience is advantageous.
• Proficiency in English (verbal and written) is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies for cost-effectiveness and supplier reliability.
• Negotiate contracts, manage SLAs, and NDAs.
• Conduct supplier audits and track BBBEE compliance.

Skills

Advanced MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project)

Strong negotiation skills

Effective communication

Results-oriented approach

Education

National Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or related field

Tools

Advanced ERP and online procurement systems knowledge

Job description

Buyer: Mechanical & Precision Engineering

Salary: R46,200 (Total Cost to Company structure)
Relocation: Possible (support may be provided)
Job Level: Middle Management
Reporting Line: Finance & Procurement Executive

Role Overview

• Drive efficient, cost-effective, and compliant procurement processes
• Source precision engineering materials and manage supplier negotiations
• Oversee vendor relationships to support business goals and compliance

Educational & Experience Requirements

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

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies for cost-effectiveness and supplier reliability
• Source and qualify local and international suppliers, optimising cost and quality
• Negotiate contracts, manage SLAs, and NDAs
• Conduct supplier audits and track BBBEE compliance and performance
• Collaborate with Finance on budgets, expenditure, and cost controls
• Optimise inventory levels using MOQ and safety stock analysis
• Maintain ERP systems and ensure procurement process compliance
• Expedite deliveries, resolve billing discrepancies, and handle supplier issues
• Support product specification development and service appraisal
• Strong negotiation skills with deep market knowledge
• Effective communication and conflict resolution abilities
• Results-oriented, proactive, and problem-solving mindset
• Ability to thrive in complex environments and mentor junior staff

Technical Skills

• Advanced MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project)
• Advanced ERP and online procurement systems knowledge
• Familiarity with costing principles
• Strong technical understanding of machinery, equipment, and materials
• Excellent planning, administration, and attention to detail
• Knowledge of procurement success drivers: Quality, Price, Timing