Junior Buyer - Raw Materials

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund contributions

Overtime pay

On-the-job training

Mentorship

Generous annual leave

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a motivated Junior Buyer to join our client’s Procurement team. This entry-level role is ideal for graduates or candidates with 1-2 years purchasing experience, offering exposure to sourcing materials, supplier management, and purchase order processing.

The role emphasizes strong organization, proactive learning, and collaboration with internal teams to meet production schedules within a dynamic manufacturing environment in Durban.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in SCM, logistics, business administration or related field.
• 0-2 years in purchasing, procurement or admin role, preferably manufacturing.
• Basic understanding of procurement principles and supply chain operations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills; liaising with suppliers and internal teams.
• Proactive problem-solving attitude; keen to learn and grow.
• Familiarity with ERP systems is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist in sourcing and evaluating potential suppliers for raw materials and components.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders under the guidance of senior buyers.
• Track order status and ensure timely delivery of goods to meet production schedules.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and update the supplier database.
• Support negotiation processes with suppliers for pricing and terms.
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with the planning department to forecast material needs.
• Verify invoices against purchase orders and resolve any discrepancies.
• Assist in evaluating supplier performance and provide feedback.
• Research market trends and competitor pricing for assigned materials.

Skills

Procurement basics

Supplier liaison

Attention to detail

ERP familiarity

Education

Degree or Diploma in SCM or related field

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established manufacturing company renowned for its quality products, is actively seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Junior Buyer to join their Procurement department in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This entry-level position is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or an individual with 1-2 years of purchasing experience to develop their career within a supportive and dynamic manufacturing environment. The Junior Buyer will assist senior procurement staff in sourcing and purchasing raw materials, components, and services, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to quality specifications. The role demands a proactive attitude, strong organizational skills, and a willingness to learn the intricacies of the supply chain within the vibrant industrial hub of Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in sourcing and evaluating potential suppliers for raw materials and components.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders under the guidance of senior buyers.
• Track order status and ensure timely delivery of goods to meet production schedules.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and update the supplier database.
• Support negotiation processes with suppliers for pricing and terms.
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with the planning department to forecast material needs.
• Verify invoices against purchase orders and resolve any discrepancies.
• Assist in evaluating supplier performance and provide feedback.
• Research market trends and competitor pricing for assigned materials.

Requirements

• A relevant degree or diploma in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 0-2 years of experience in a purchasing, procurement, or administrative role, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Basic understanding of procurement principles and supply chain operations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, for data analysis and reporting.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaunt effectively with suppliers and internal teams.
• A proactive and problem-solving attitude, with a keenness to learn and grow.
• Familiarity with ERP systems is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive entry-level salary, comprehensive medical aid and pension fund contributions, and opportunities for overtime pay. Employees benefit from extensive on-the-job training, mentorship programs led by experienced procurement professionals, and potential for career advancement within the organization. The company values work-life balance and provides generous annual leave. This hybrid role offers the flexibility to work from home on certain days, complementing the in-office duties in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.