Buyer (Mechanical and Precision Engineering)

The Legends Agency; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading procurement firm in Cape Town seeks a Buyer in Mechanical and Precision Engineering. You will drive cost-effective procurement processes, manage supplier negotiations, and oversee vendor relationships. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in procurement management, preferably with a technical background in mechanical engineering. Proficiency in negotiation and communication is essential for this middle management role.

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).

Responsibilities

• Drive efficient and compliant procurement processes.
• Source and qualify local and international suppliers.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving mindset

Education

National Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

Advanced MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Advanced ERP systems

Job description

Buyer (Mechanical and Precision Engineering)

About the job Buyer (Mechanical and Precision Engineering)

Salary

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