Buyer (Junior)

Main purpose of the position

An Engineering Buyer sources, negotiates, and procures technical spares, equipment, and services for manufacturing and production environments. They collaborate closely with engineering teams to maintain optimal inventory levels, manage supplier relationships, and ensure plant reliability while strictly adhering to safety and cost standards.

• Technical Procurement: Source and purchase mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and processing plant components according to exact technical specifications.
• Supplier Management: Build relationships with local/international vendors. Inventory Control: Work with engineering and maintenance teams to maintain stock optimization of critical spares, track minimum/maximum levels, and reduce obsolete stock to prevent downtime with the support from the Stores Coordinator.
• CAPEX & Projects Support: Assist with CAPEX projects by generating Request for Quotes (RFQs)
• System Operations: Utilize ERP/CMMS systems (such as CSB, B2B, Papertrail or Pragma) to process purchase orders, maintain master data, and track deliveries.
• Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, ethical standards, and health, safety, and environmental (HSE) protocols.
• Purchasing and procurement: Assist in sourcing new suppliers and negotiating prices, terms, and delivery schedules with vendors.
• Purchase order management: Create, process, and track purchase orders, ensuring all details are accurate and up to date.
• Inventory management: Monitor stock levels, forecast needs, and place orders to maintain appropriate inventory without excess or shortage.
• Supplier relations: Develop and maintain positive relationships with suppliers and serve as a point of contact for them.
• Data and reporting: Maintain accurate records, create reports on purchasing, spending, and product performance, and ensure data integrity in internal systems.

Preferred Requirements:

• Matric
• Degree in supply chain management, business, or engineering is often preferred.
• A relevant diploma or degree in purchasing is often preferred
• 3 to 5 years of dedicated purchasing or procurement experience within an engineering, manufacturing, heavy industrial, or technical environment.

• Managing supplier database
• Procurement & Sourcing
• Compliance and documentation (Procurement Administration)
• Cost Management
• Proven experience using ERP
• Inventory Planning & Management
• Supplier Relations

Skills:

• Analytical skills: A high level of numeracy and the ability to analyse data is essential.
• Organizational skills: A strong administrative orientation, accuracy, and attention to detail are crucial.
• ability to manage time and work under pressure to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Negotiation and communication to evaluate vendors, secure favourable terms, and coordinate.
• Strong understanding of engineering materials and components
• Knowledge of local and international buying practices
• Understanding of H&S and environmental standards in engineering environments