Job Description
Planner / Buyer
Location: Hastings
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 + bonus & benefits
About the Company
This opportunity is with a long-standing, family-run precision engineering business that has built a strong reputation over more than four decades. The company focuses on producing complex, high-specification machined parts and assemblies, using modern CNC turning and milling techniques.
They support a variety of demanding industries such as aerospace, defence, motorsport, and telecommunications, operating to strict quality standards including AS9100. Their services range from prototype development through to full-scale production, with a strong emphasis on flexibility and customer satisfaction.
As part of their ongoing expansion, they are seeking a Planner/Buyer to strengthen their manufacturing and supply chain team.
The Position
In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing both production planning and purchasing activities, helping to ensure materials and resources are in place to meet delivery commitments.
You’ll collaborate closely with internal departments and external suppliers, balancing production demands, capacity, and material flow within a fast-moving engineering environment.
Key Duties
* Create and manage production schedules to meet customer deadlines
* Issue and oversee purchase orders for materials, subcontracted processes, and consumables
* Build and maintain effective supplier relationships to support quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery
* Track and manage inventory levels, implementing stock control methods such as Kanban where appropriate
* Liaise with engineering and production teams to assist with new product introduction and ongoing work
* Monitor lead times and address any potential supply chain disruptions
* Keep ERP/MRP systems updated with accurate and relevant data
* Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within planning and procurement functions
About You
* Previous experience in a planning, buying, or similar role within manufacturing is desirable
* Knowledge of precision engineering, CNC machining, or subcontract environments would be advantageous, though not essential
* Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems or production planning tools is beneficial
* Strong organisational ability with the capacity to manage competing priorities
* Confident communicator, comfortable engaging with suppliers and internal stakeholders
* Proactive approach with solid problem-solving skills and a willingness to develop
* Genuine interest in manufacturing and supply chain operations
What You’ll Receive
* 24 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays
* Early finish every Friday
* The chance to join a well-regarded and expanding engineering company
* Supportive team environment with a collaborative culture
* Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing processes and high-performance industries