Purchasing Assistant

Please note that this role requires security checks.

This is an exciting opportunity to support the Supply Chain team based in Inchinnan within a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment. The role offers varied responsibilities, working closely with Supply Chain, Stores, Quality and Accounts to resolve queries relating to outstanding orders, non‑conforming components and invoicing. You’ll have the chance to contribute to high‑profile Subsea Defence contracts while developing your career in supply chain within a growing organisation. Candidates must be able to achieve British Security Clearance as part of the role, with genuine opportunities for progression as the business continues to expand.

What you’ll be doing:

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Purchasing function within the company supply chain, including ERP system administration and data entry.
• Raise, place and expedite purchase orders, including pricing, delivery confirmation, approvals and timely issuance to suppliers.
• Issue enquiries and collate multi‑vendor quotations, supporting Buyers with manual requisitions and special purchases.
• Monitor and expedite supplier deliveries, maintaining accurate use of order and delivery notes and communicating performance issues to Buyers and Management.
• Manage returns to suppliers where items are non‑conforming or unsuitable.
• Support document control activities including PO archiving, reporting, and general administrative tasks.
• Work closely with Finance to match deliveries to invoices and resolve reconciliation queries.
• Produce accurate and timely reports on order status and cost savings.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and provide holiday cover or additional support duties as required.

What we’re looking for:

• Ability to take ownership and accountability of issues and make decisions.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent time management and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to work effectively within a team structure, accept and understand management instruction, manage own timescales and specified timescales effectively.
• Focused on delivering tight deadlines and changing requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Strong MS Office experience and general IT skills.
• Standard Grade Level 3 or above, SVQ/HNC in Business Administration (preferred but not essential).
• Experience in a similar role would be advantageous.

Early finish on Fridays. Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.). Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility. Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions. Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations.

About Us:

James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration. At James Fisher and Sons, we are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce. To support an accessible and inclusive recruitment experience in the UK, we partner with Vercida.