Role Purpose
The Technical Buyer is responsible for the procurement and quality assurance of raw materials, fasteners and subcontracted processes used in aerospace manufacture. The role combines technical purchasing, supplier management, and supplier quality assurance, ensuring compliance with AS9100, customer requirements and internal KPIs while supporting on‑time, cost‑effective production.
Key Responsibilities
Purchasing & Supply Chain
* Procure raw materials (sheet, billet and bar) and fasteners in line with engineering requirements, drawing and Bills of Materials.
* Interpret and work directly from BOMs, specifications and aerospace standards.
* Source and manage approved aerospace suppliers for materials, fasteners, and subcontracted processes (e.g. heat treatment, plating, NDT, treatments).
* Raise, manage and expedite purchase orders through the MRP system.
* Monitor supplier lead times, delivery performance and material availability to support production schedules.
* Negotiate pricing, lead times and commercial terms while maintaining quality and compliance
Supplier Quality & Compliance
* Own and maintain the Approved Supplier List (ASL) in accordance with AS9100 and customer requirements.
* Ensure suppliers meet AS9100, customer approvals and regulatory requirements.
* Conduct supplier performance reviews using defined KPIs (OTD, quality, responsiveness, NCR trends).
* Support or lead supplier audits, assessments, and corrective actions.
* Manage supplier non‑conformances, corrective actions, and continuous improvement activities.
* Ensure material certification, traceability, and documentation compliance.
Skills & Experience
* Proven experience in a technical buying or supplier quality role within aerospace or a regulated manufacturing environment.
* Strong understanding of raw materials (sheet, billet, bar) and aerospace fasteners.
* Ability to read and interpret BOMs, drawings and technical specifications.
* Working knowledge of AS9100 and supplier quality requirements.
* Experience managing subcontractors and special processes.
* Confident communicator with strong negotiation skills, particularly on the phone and in supplier meetings.
* Experience using MRP/ERP systems (Syspro highly desirable).
What Success Looks Like in This Role
* On‑time delivery of compliant materials and subcontracted services.
* A robust, up‑to‑date Approved Supplier List.
* Measurable improvement in supplier KPIs and quality performance.
* Strong supplier relationships that support business growth and customer satisfaction.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Bereavement leave
* Cycle to work scheme
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* Life insurance
* On-site parking
* Referral programme
* Sick pay
Work Location: In person