Senior Project Buyer – M&E (Rail & Infrastructure)
Location: Birmingham / Site (3 days per week)
Salary: £55,000 – £65,000
This is an opportunity to step into a pivotal procurement role supporting major rail and infrastructure programmes, working for a specialist subcontractor delivering into Tier 1 clients/programmes.
If you have a strong background in M&E / MEP procurement and enjoy operating at the sharp end of complex projects, this role offers real ownership, pace, and influence. You will be directly supporting the delivery of high-value packages where procurement performance has a measurable impact on project success.
The Role
You will take the lead on procurement across mechanical and electrical packages, ensuring materials, subcontractors, and suppliers are in place to meet demanding programme and commercial targets. Working closely with project and commercial teams, you will play a key role in driving value, managing risk, and keeping delivery on track.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading end-to-end procurement of M&E packages across live rail and infrastructure projects
- Managing and developing relationships with key suppliers and specialist subcontractors
- Negotiating competitive commercial terms and securing best value for projects
- Supporting delivery teams with procurement strategy, planning, and cost control
- Monitoring supply chain performance and resolving issues to avoid programme delays
- Managing variations and ensuring purchase orders reflect live project changes
- Ensuring procurement processes are structured, efficient, and aligned to project needs
- Working closely with Tier 1 contractors and internal stakeholders to maintain alignment
- Identifying opportunities for cost savings and continuous improvement
What we’re looking for
- Experience as a Senior Buyer within M&E / MEP in rail or infrastructure environments
- Background working for a subcontractor or delivering into Tier 1 contractors
- Strong supplier network across M&E or infrastructure supply chains
- Commercially astute with strong negotiation skills
- Experience working in fast-paced, project-driven environments
- Ability to manage multiple packages and competing deadlines
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
- A proactive, hands‑on approach with a focus on delivery
This role offers the chance to work on high-profile infrastructure programmes, with real visibility across projects and the opportunity to influence outcomes through strong procurement leadership. If you enjoy working at pace, building supplier relationships, and being close to delivery, this is a role where you can make a tangible impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer – M&E/MEP – Rail/Construction/Engineering
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Cedar specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
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✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
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Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Cedar value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
