At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage material flow and inventory accuracy to ensure smooth operations.
- Company: Join Navantia UK, a leader in defence and maritime innovation.
- Benefits: Supportive team, skill development, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to equal opportunity and diverse experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on production and operational performance.
- Qualifications: Experience in materials or logistics; strong attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state‑of‑the‑art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state‑owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well‑positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.
About the Role
We’re looking for a detail‑driven and proactive Material Controller to play a key role in keeping our operations running smoothly. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a background in materials, inventory, or logistics who enjoys working cross‑functionally and making a tangible impact on production and operational performance. As Material Controller, you’ll take ownership of material flow and inventory accuracy, ensuring the right materials are available at the right time, while maintaining high standards of compliance, safety, and efficiency.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Monitor and control all incoming and outgoing materials to ensure accuracy and availability
- Maintain precise inventory records using ERP or inventory management systems
- Carry out regular stock audits and resolve discrepancies
- Collaborate closely with procurement, production, and warehouse teams
- Implement and maintain inventory control processes to minimise waste and stock‑outs
- Track material usage, prepare reports, and provide insights to support decision‑making
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards
- Support forecasting and optimisation of inventory levels
- Manage documentation for material receipts, transfers, and issues
What We’re Looking For
Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in material control, inventory management, or warehouse operations
- Strong working knowledge of ERP or inventory systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle, or similar)
- Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail
- Analytical mindset with effective problem‑solving ability
- Confident communicator who works well in a collaborative team environment
Working Environment
- Standard office‑based role with interaction across operational teams
- Occasional travel and overnight stays may be required
- Flexibility may be needed during peak operational periods
Physical Requirements
- Low physical risk
- Combination of sitting, standing, and computer‑based work with regular breaks
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a supportive, knowledgeable team
- Develop your skills in a technically varied and operationally critical role
- Opportunity to influence processes and recommend improvements
- A trusted position with autonomy and scope for growth
Please note: This role description outlines the primary responsibilities but is not exhaustive. Duties may evolve in line with business needs and role development.
Qualifications
- Third‑level qualification in Logistics, Materials Management, or a related discipline
- Technical Support College Diploma / High School Diploma with significant relevant experience
- A relevant college certificate is typically expected
This role is well suited to someone looking to develop toward a professional or management pathway.
Additional Information
We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination. We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.
If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.
Material Controller in Appledore employer: NAVANTIA UK
Navantia-UK in Bristol is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a focus on career development and a hybrid working model, team members are empowered to influence significant maritime platform support while enjoying a competitive salary and the opportunity to collaborate with industry experts in both defence and commercial sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Material Controller in Appledore
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those at Navantia UK or similar companies. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Show us how your skills in material control and inventory management align with our mission to support the UK's defence and energy sectors.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love hearing about real-life examples that demonstrate your analytical mindset.
✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Navantia UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Material Controller in Appledore
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Material Controller role. Highlight your experience in materials, inventory, or logistics, and don’t forget to mention any relevant ERP systems you’ve worked with. We want to see how your skills match what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Be sure to mention your attention to detail and problem-solving skills, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:Since collaboration is crucial in this role, make sure to highlight any experiences where you’ve worked well in a team. We love seeing candidates who can communicate effectively and contribute positively to a team environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Navantia UK and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at NAVANTIA UK
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of materials and inventory management. Familiarise yourself with common terms and processes related to material control, as well as the specific ERP systems mentioned in the job description, like SAP or Oracle. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also prepared to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully resolved discrepancies or improved inventory processes. Be ready to discuss how you approached these challenges and what the outcomes were. This will demonstrate your analytical mindset and ability to make a tangible impact on operations.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, think of instances where you've effectively collaborated with others. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve contributed to team success. This will reassure them that you can thrive in a cross-functional environment.
✨Understand Compliance and Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with health, safety, and environmental standards relevant to material control. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance in previous roles. This shows that you take safety seriously and understand its importance in maintaining operational efficiency.
