Technical Buyer (Heavy Engineering)

The Recruitment Guy; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Technical Buyer for a permanent position in KwaZulu Natal. The role focuses on managing the procurement lifecycle of specialized components with emphasis on negotiation, supplier agreements, and commodity portfolio management. Ideal candidates should possess an associate degree or equivalent technical experience, alongside expertise in heavy engineering commodity purchasing. Strong negotiation and organizational skills are essential for driving supplier performance and maintaining quality standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in highly technical commodity purchasing in heavy engineering.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Manage purchase orders and supplier documentation.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and stock levels.
• Monitor supplier performance and drive improvements.
• Engage in supplier audits to uphold quality standards.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Associate degree or equivalent technical diploma

35 years of specialized procurement experience

Tools

ERP systems (like SAP, Oracle)

Job description

Title: Technical Buyer (Heavy Engineering) | Area: KwaZulu Natal | Industry: Heavy Engineering | Ref No.

• Salary: Market related TCTC available / negotiable
• Start Date: ASAP / Negotiable
• Type: Permanent (Full-time)

An experienced TECHNICAL BUYER (with heavy engineering industry exp.) is required for permanent employment based in KwaZulu Natal.

Lead the procurement lifecycle of specialized industrial components, with a focus on negotiating supplier agreements, managing commodity portfolios, and supporting high‑value manufacturing lines.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Generate and manage purchase orders, supplier quotes, and documentation to maintain system accuracy.
• Evaluate material and component requirements, ensuring coverage across commodities.
• Negotiate lead times, pricing, and stock levels to balance cost‑efficiency with operational reliability.
• Prepare and send requests for quotations (RFQs); evaluate suppliers strategically.
• Monitor and report on supplier performance, partnering with cross‑functional teams to drive improvements.
• Streamline the supplier base while maintaining competitive alternatives in place.
• Engage in supplier audits in collaboration with Quality and Engineering to uphold quality standards.
• Resolve invoice and credit discrepancies and compile procurement data for stakeholder reviews.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Associate degree or equivalent technical diploma; or 35 years of specialized procurement experience.
• Demonstrable expertise in highly technical commodity purchasing, preferably in machine tools, fabrication, or industrial systems.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (like SAP, Oracle) and Lean Manufacturing processes.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Position is based in KZN, local residency required.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

We will ONLY consider applications from suitably experienced candidates that meet the requirements of this vacancy.