Job Description
Scheduling and Purchasing Assistant
Location: Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan
Reports to: Managing Director
Type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive
Job Purpose
We are looking for a reliable and experienced Purchasing Assistant to support the procurement needs of a growing construction business. This role is suited to someone who enjoys taking ownership of purchasing activities, working closely with trusted suppliers, and using their experience to achieve best value and dependable service.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage day-to-day purchasing of materials, plant, and services for construction projects
* Work directly with suppliers to secure competitive pricing, favourable terms, and reliable delivery
* Liaising with Contracts Manager to ensure delivery of materials to sites on time.
* Build and maintain long-term relationships with key suppliers
* Use experience and judgement to compare quotes and select the most appropriate options, not just the cheapest
* Raise and manage purchase orders, checking accuracy and resolving any issues
* Monitor deliveries and proactively chase or resolve delays
* Deal with invoice queries and pricing discrepancies
* Maintain clear, well-organised purchasing and supplier records
* Support site teams and management with procurement-related matters
* Suggest improvements to purchasing processes based on practical experience
* Ensure the correct team members are scheduled onto the correct jobs at the right time
* Support Contracts Manager with planning reactive and emergency work alongside other ongoing projects.
* Keeping scheduling and works software up to date
Skills & Experience
Essential:
* Proven experience in a purchasing, procurement, or buying role
* Strong knowledge of dealing with suppliers and negotiating pricing
* Confident communicator who is comfortable picking up the phone
* Organised, dependable, and detail-focused
* Practical approach with good commercial awareness
Desirable:
* Experience within construction or a related trade environment
* Familiarity with construction materials and suppliers
* Experience working in a small or owner-managed business
Personal Attributes
* Hands-on and comfortable taking responsibility
* Calm, professional, and confident dealing with suppliers
* Values consistency, accuracy, and doing things properly
* Flexible and supportive of wider business needs