Purchasing Assistant (Hybrid)

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Hybrid work model

Training & development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Purchasing Assistant for its East London operation. This role combines office-based duties with remote flexibility within a hybrid setup, supporting the purchasing department across orders, supplier communications, and record-keeping in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate has 1–2 years in admin or purchasing support, strong Excel/Word skills, and a basic understanding of purchasing principles.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years in an administrative or purchasing support role.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.
• Familiarity with an ERP system or procurement software is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist in creation and processing of purchase orders and requisitions.
• Maintain accurate records of procurement documentation.
• Communicate with suppliers to confirm orders, track deliveries, and resolve inquiries.
• Liaise with internal departments to gather information and ensure timely orders.
• Process invoices and reconcile with POs and goods received notes.
• Support Purchasing Manager with data entry and basic reporting.
• Maintain an updated supplier database and contact details.
• Track inventory levels and report discrepancies.
• Ensure adherence to purchasing procedures and policies.
• Provide general admin support to the purchasing team.

Skills

Excel proficiency

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Certificate or Diploma in Administration or Business Studies

Tools

ERP system

Procurement software

MS Word

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a thriving business in the automotive parts manufacturing sector, is looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Purchasing Assistant to join their team in East London, Eastern Cape . This role offers a hybrid working arrangement, combining office-based responsibilities with remote flexibility. You will provide essential administrative and operational support to the purchasing department, assisting with order processing, supplier communication, and record-keeping. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to build a career in procurement within a reputable manufacturing company. You will gain valuable experience supporting the procurement lifecycle in a dynamic industrial environment in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the creation and processing of purchase orders and requisitions.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all procurement-related documentation.
• Communicate with suppliers to confirm orders, track deliveries, and resolve basic inquiries.
• Liaise with internal departments to gather information and ensure timely order fulfillment.
• Process invoices and reconcile them with purchase orders and goods received notes.
• Support the Purchasing Manager with data entry and basic reporting on procurement activities.
• Maintain an updated database of supplier information and contact details.
• Assist in tracking inventory levels and reporting discrepancies.
• Ensure adherence to company purchasing procedures and policies.
• Provide general administrative support to the purchasing team as needed.

Requirements

• A minimum of 1-2 years of experience in an administrative or purchasing support role.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Word.
• Familiarity with an ERP system or procurement software is an advantage.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage tasks effectively in a hybrid work setting, balancing office and remote duties.
• A proactive attitude and a willingness to learn new processes.
• Basic understanding of purchasing principles.
• A relevant certificate or diploma in Administration or Business Studies is preferred.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility and promotes a healthy work-life balance.
• You will have opportunities for training and career development within the procurement function, working from our modern facilities in East London and remotely.