At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage procurement of materials and subcontract packages for exciting construction projects.
- Company: Established construction business with a strong reputation in the industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to work on diverse projects.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities to support multiple projects simultaneously.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact in the construction sector.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Buyer in construction and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
OCS are currently working with an established construction business specialising in groundworks, reinforced concrete frames, basements, civil engineering and external works. Due to continued growth and a strong project pipeline, they are looking to strengthen their commercial and procurement function with an experienced Buyer.
The Role
- Working closely with the commercial, estimating and operational teams, you will play an important role in ensuring projects are procured efficiently, competitively and in line with programme requirements.
- Managing the procurement of materials, plant, equipment and subcontract packages.
- Obtaining and analysing quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
- Negotiating prices, terms and delivery schedules.
- Developing and maintaining strong supplier relationships.
- Issuing purchase orders and managing procurement documentation.
- Monitoring supplier performance, lead times and deliveries.
- Working closely with Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers.
- Supporting project teams with procurement strategy and commercial decisions.
- Identifying cost-saving and value-engineering opportunities.
- Ensuring materials and services are available in line with project programmes.
- Maintaining an effective and competitive supply chain.
- Assisting with the development of preferred supplier relationships.
- Supporting multiple projects simultaneously.
You will ideally have:
- Previous experience working as a Buyer within construction.
- Experience procuring construction materials, plant and/or subcontract packages.
- Knowledge of groundworks, civils, RC frame or general construction procurement.
- Strong negotiation and commercial skills.
- Excellent supplier and subcontractor relationship management.
- Good understanding of construction programmes and procurement lead times.
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- The ability to manage multiple packages and deadlines.
- A proactive approach with strong attention to detail.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This is a great opportunity to join a business that has developed a strong reputation within the specialist construction sector and continues to expand its project portfolio.
Buyer in Essex employer: OCS Recruitment Ltd
OCS is an exceptional employer, offering Site Engineers the chance to work on a prestigious £12m residential development in Hertfordshire. With a strong focus on employee growth and a collaborative work culture, OCS provides ample opportunities for professional development while ensuring a supportive environment where your contributions are valued. Join a well-established contractor that prioritises safety, quality, and innovation in every project.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Essex
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like OCS Recruitment Ltd, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Buyer at OCS Recruitment Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at OCS Recruitment Ltd
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
