Engineering Buyer

Engineering Buyer (Materials Purchasing Specialist) up to £42k Base + Bonus

Ref: ABJ786

Location: Cambridgeshire | Permanent: Onsite: Desk Based

Are you an experienced Engineering Buyer looking to make a real impact within a successful and growing manufacturing business?

Actively seeking a commercially astute Engineering Buyer for a leading manufacturing organisation to play a pivotal role in its procurement team. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast‑paced, innovative manufacturing environment where your expertise will directly support the delivery of cutting‑edge engineering and production projects.

As an engineering buyer or materials purchasing specialist you will take ownership of sourcing technical materials, engineered components and specialist services, ensuring the business achieves the highest standards of quality, value and supply chain performance.

Responsibilities

• Sourcing and purchasing engineered components, raw materials, tooling and technical services from approved suppliers.
• Reviewing engineering drawings, specifications and Bills of Materials (BOMs) to ensure purchasing accuracy.
• Negotiating pricing, contracts and commercial terms to deliver best value.
• Building and developing strong supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance.
• Working collaboratively with engineering and production teams to ensure compliance with technical and regulatory requirements.
• Liaising with Group companies to leverage volume purchasing opportunities and reduce material costs.
• Maintaining accurate procurement records, including pricing, lead times, supplier performance and inventory data.
• Identifying cost‑saving opportunities through alternative sourcing, supplier optimisation and value engineering.
• Resolving supply chain issues including shortages, quality concerns and delivery delays.
• Supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) by sourcing prototype materials and engaging suppliers early in projects.
• Ensuring procurement activities comply with company policies, industry standards and Health & Safety requirements.

Skills and Qualifications

• Degree, HNC or HND in Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain or a related discipline.
• CIPS qualification (or working towards it).
• Experience purchasing within engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, electronics or industrial sectors.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering materials and supply chain management.
• Experience with strategic sourcing, project procurement and global supply chains.
• Excellent supplier negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems and procurement software.
• Knowledge of quality systems and industry regulatory requirements.
• The ability to build effective relationships across Engineering, Production and Quality functions.

Key Strengths

• Commercial awareness; Technical understanding; Supplier relationship management
• Cost analysis and value engineering; Inventory planning and long lead‑time management; Continuous improvement

Benefits

• Annual company performance bonus22 days' holiday plus Bank Holidays (rising to 26 days with service)
• Company pension scheme; Life assurance

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