Junior Buyer - Manufacturing Sector

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote role

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Online training

Mentorship program

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Buyer for a Durban-based, fully remote role. You will support the Senior Purchasing Manager in sourcing materials, processing POs, and maintaining supplier records from your home office.

This entry-level role offers learning opportunities in cost analysis, vendor relations, and ERP systems, with collaboration with production and engineering teams. Strong organizational skills and a proactive attitude are essential.

Qualifications

• This role welcomes an entry-level candidate with internship or 1–2 years of experience in purchasing or administration.
• Proficiency with MS Office and ERP systems is preferred.
• Strong organization and attention to detail are essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist in sourcing materials and services from approved vendors.
• Process requisitions and create purchase orders in the ERP system.
• Monitor orders and coordinate with suppliers for timely delivery.
• Maintain accurate vendor files and performance data.
• Support supplier evaluation and reporting activities.

Skills

Sourcing materials

Purchase orders

MS Office

ERP familiarity

Attention to detail

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree (Business / Commerce / SCM)

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established manufacturing firm in Durban , is actively seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Junior Buyer to join their procurement team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute to our operational success from the convenience of your home office. The Junior Buyer will support the Senior Purchasing Manager in all aspects of the procurement process, including sourcing materials, processing purchase orders, and maintaining supplier records. This role is an excellent entry point into the world of industrial procurement, offering significant learning opportunities and career growth within the manufacturing sector. You will gain hands‑on experience with supply chain management, cost analysis, and vendor relations, working closely with production and engineering teams. If you are looking to launch your procurement career in a supportive, remote environment with a company that values innovation and efficiency, this opportunity in KwaZulu‑Natal is ideal for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in sourcing materials, components, and services from approved vendors.
• Process purchase requisitions and create purchase orders in the ERP system.
• Monitor order fulfillment and follow up with suppliers to ensure timely delivery.
• Maintain accurate vendor files, including contact information, pricing, and performance data.
• Conduct basic price comparisons and market research for assigned commodities.
• Support the Senior Purchasing Manager in supplier evaluation and performance tracking.
• Assist in resolving delivery discrepancies and quality issues with suppliers.
• Help prepare reports on purchasing activities and key performance indicators.
• Adhere to all company procurement policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Commerce, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Previous internship or 1-2 years of experience in a purchasing or administrative role is advantageous.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal abilities.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn new processes and systems.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote setting.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and materials is a plus.

Benefits

• This fully remote role offers significant flexibility and autonomy.
• Our client provides a competitive starting salary, along with opportunities for performance-based increases.
• Employees are eligible for comprehensive medical aid coverage and a retirement savings plan.
• The company invests in its employees' growth through access to online training modules, workshops, and mentorship programs.
• You will become part of a collaborative and supportive team culture, even while working remotely.
• This position provides an excellent foundation for a career in procurement within the manufacturing industry, allowing you to work from anywhere within South Africa, with the functional headquarters being in Durban .