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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Procurement team with purchasing and supplier management activities.
- Company: Join CAF Rail UK, a leader in railway systems with over 100 years of innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health care cash plan, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible distance learning combined with hands-on training for excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement while making a real impact in the rail industry.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with GCSEs in English and Maths; previous experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 21350 - 21350 £ per year.
About CAF Rail UK
CAF Rail UK is a world class leader in the international market for the design, manufacture, maintenance and supply of equipment and components for railway systems. With over 100 years of experience, it is a global community recognised for its versatility, flexibility and constant innovation. Employing over 400 people at multiple locations across the UK, CAF is an exciting growing organisation in the rail industry.
Apprenticeship Summary
- Annual salary: £21,350 per annum.
- Benefits: generous annual leave, Bike2Work scheme, generous pension contributions, access to a supportive Employee Assistance Programme, a health care cash plan, company paid sick leave scheme, life assurance, and access to wealth management & financial workshops.
- Working week: Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 17:00. Total hours per week: 37.5 hours.
- Location: The apprenticeship is completed through distance learning with practical training at our head office in Manchester and Central Stores in Stockport.
- Apprenticeship duration: 18 months.
- Start date: June 2026.
- Level: Level 3 Procurement & Supply Assist.
Responsibilities
- Support the Procurement & Supply Chain team in day‑to‑day purchasing and supplier administration activities. This includes raising and managing purchase orders, supporting supplier performance, expediting, maintaining procurement records and data, and working with internal stakeholders to source parts, materials and services in a timely, compliant and cost‑effective manner.
- Develop capability in procurement processes and purchasing systems, supplier communication and relationship management, spend analysis, procurement compliance and audit discipline, commercial awareness, responsible and sustainable procurement, basic negotiation support, and professional workplace communication and stakeholder management.
Qualifications and Personal Qualities
- Applicants must be 18 years old or older.
- GCSE grade C or above in English and Maths.
- Strong academic background desirable (e.g., A‑Levels, BTEC, NVQ, or equivalent in business, engineering, supply chain or related discipline).
- Previous experience in an office, customer service, stores, purchasing, engineering or logistics environment.
- Aware of ERP or purchasing systems such as SAP.
- Interest in rail, rolling stock, engineering services or technical supply chains.
Training & Qualification
The Apprenticeship Programme combines distance learning with on‑the‑job training. Applicants will commit to at least 6 hours of study/assessment/exam time per week, with 3 hours tutor‑led. Five mandatory CIPS exams must be completed and passed to finish the apprenticeship, leading to a Level 3 CIPS Certificate in Procurement and Supply. At the end of the 18‑month programme, applicants receive:
- CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations.
- Level 3 CIPS Certificate in Procurement and Supply.
Benefits
CAF Rail UK offers a range of benefits to support wellbeing, including:
- 25 days annual leave.
- Excellent workplace pension scheme (with up to 10% contribution).
- Health care cash plan.
- Bike2Work scheme.
- Paid volunteering days.
Junior Buyer Apprentice (Stockport / Manchester) employer: CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles)
Contact Detail:
CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Buyer Apprentice (Stockport / Manchester)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the rail industry, especially those at CAF Rail UK. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might help you land that apprenticeship.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching CAF Rail UK thoroughly. Understand their values, projects, and the role of a Junior Buyer Apprentice. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As you'll be working with suppliers and internal teams, being able to express yourself clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the CAF Rail UK team.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Buyer Apprentice (Stockport / Manchester)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Buyer Apprentice role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, like your interest in procurement and supply chains. We want to see how you fit into our world!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the rail industry and how your background makes you a great fit for CAF Rail UK. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention any specific skills or experiences that relate to procurement processes or purchasing systems, like SAP. If you've got any customer service or office experience, make sure to include that too – it all counts!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles)
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research CAF Rail UK thoroughly. Understand their role in the rail industry, their products, and recent innovations. This will not only impress your interviewers but also help you ask insightful questions.
✨Show Your Passion for Procurement
Demonstrate your interest in procurement and supply chain management. Be ready to discuss any relevant coursework or experiences, and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Junior Buyer Apprentice role. Highlight your eagerness to learn and grow in this field.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to face practical scenarios during the interview. Think about how you would handle tasks like raising purchase orders or managing supplier communications. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or what success looks like in the role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.