Junior Buyer – £31,000 per annum – Manchester (Office-Based)
A leading engineering and manufacturing business is looking to appoint a Junior Buyer to join their established Purchasing Team in Manchester.
This is a great opportunity for someone with 2–4 years’ experience in a purchasing support or buying role, ideally within a technical or manufacturing environment, who is ready to take on more responsibility in a global supply chain function.
The Role
The Junior Buyer will support strategic procurement activity, ensuring cost-effective and timely sourcing of materials, components, and services. The successful candidate will work cross-functionally with engineering, production, and finance teams, and play an active role in supplier development, cost reduction, and process improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
* Source new suppliers globally and negotiate pricing and lead times
* Raise and manage purchase orders; validate and resolve invoice discrepancies
* Support inventory management and ensure on-time delivery of critical components
* Build and maintain supplier relationships, monitor performance and KPIs
* Identify and deliver cost-saving opportunities
* Read and interpret technical drawings to support purchasing decisions
* Collaborate with internal departments to ensure procurement aligns with project timelines
Requirements:
* 2–4 years’ experience in a Purchasing Assistant or Junior Buyer role
* Experience working with international suppliers
* Proven ability to negotiate pricing and delivery terms
* Skilled in resolving invoice issues and supporting procurement documentation
* Confident reading technical drawings
* Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
* ERP experience (e.g., SAP or similar) desirable
* CIPS qualification or working towards it preferred
The Person:
* Strong communicator with a proactive, solution-focused mindset
* Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
* Detail-driven, organised, and commercially aware
* A team player with a professional, collaborative approach
* Willing to travel internationally when required
* This is a fantastic role for someone who wants to grow within a global business and contribute to a high-performing procurement team.