Are you organised, curious, and ready to learn? We’re looking for a motivated Trainee to join our Buying Team and build a strong foundation in procurement within a fast?paced construction environment. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who wants hands?on experience, structured development and the chance to make a real impact from day one.
What you’ll be doing
As a Trainee Buyer, you’ll support the team across the full materials procurement process, helping ensure our projects have what they need, when they need it. Your day will be varied and will include maintaining and updating our procurement schedule, attending meetings, taking notes and following up on actions. You’ll work closely with the Buying Team, providing both administrative and technical support, while processing material requisitions in line with our delegation thresholds.
You’ll be responsible for issuing enquiries to suppliers and preparing simple cost comparisons to support decision making. You’ll raise and upload purchase orders, help schedule material quantities from drawings, and keep data accurate across our procurement logs and supplier databases. You’ll also assist in gathering competitive supplier quotations, supporting negotiations on cost, performance and lead times. At times, you’ll visit construction sites to discuss material queries with teams and meet suppliers to help build strong working relationships. You’ll also get involved in any additional tasks needed to support the smooth running of the Buying function.
Who we’re looking for
You don’t need prior procurement experience; although any exposure to a construction environment or an interest in the sector would be an advantage. Most importantly, we’re looking for enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. If you’re confident using IT systems, comfortable working with numbers, well?organised, detail?focused and enjoy communicating with others, you’ll fit in perfectly.
You’ll receive full training from an experienced team, gain exposure to real projects and live supplier engagement, and have opportunities to visit construction sites to see firsthand how your work contributes to successful delivery. Most importantly, you’ll join a supportive environment where your development truly matters.
Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?
Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management.
Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.
At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:
Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role within a forward-thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment