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