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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support purchasing operations and ensure timely delivery of components and services.
- Company: Join OpenWorks, a global leader in defence innovation and engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, free meals, private healthcare, and fun team socials.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement with a passionate team and exciting challenges.
- Qualifications: A-levels or equivalent; experience in procurement is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 36400 £ per year.
The Opportunity
We are looking for a Junior Buyer who is eager to build their career in procurement and play a key role in keeping our purchasing operations running smoothly. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is organised, detail-driven and ready to learn, supporting the wider procurement team to ensure components and services reach our engineering and production teams on time. In this role, you will support routine purchasing activity, maintain accurate data in our systems, collaborate with suppliers and help keep the day-to-day flow of materials moving across the business.
Who We Are
OpenWorks is a rapidly growing business operating globally with a passion for exceptional engineering and building on a legacy of defence innovation in the North East of England. Our products provide ultra-high performance, real-time detection, tracking, identification and targeting of dynamic aerial threats. They have been deployed internationally to protect high profile military and civilian assets, and contribute towards the defeat of nuisance, misguided and maliciously deployed drones during operations. We are very proud to have supported a wide range of law enforcement and military operators, protecting many of the most high profile sites and individuals around the world. The amazing things we do are only possible because of a dedicated and passionate team.
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
- Competitive remuneration package, salary from £26,000 with performance-related bonuses and clear progression opportunities.
- 25 days’ holiday + public holidays, with long-service rewards and the option to buy up to 5 additional days.
- Free breakfast and freshly cooked lunches every day, courtesy of Chef Mark and his team.
- Private healthcare through Aviva, keeping you feeling your best.
- Life assurance for peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
- Salary sacrifice schemes - including EV car and Cycle to Work options for easy, sustainable travel.
- Paid team socials - from quiz nights and football to board games and more; we love to have fun together.
- Pension plan with employer-matched contributions to help you plan for the future.
- A culture that empowers - we enable change, encourage challenge, and celebrate personal growth.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Purchase Order Processing: Handling requisitions and issuing purchase orders for low- to medium-complexity goods.
- Subcontract Service Coordination: Obtaining quotes and placing orders with subcontracted service providers.
- Order Progressing: Monitoring open purchase orders, flagging delays and working with suppliers to resolve issues.
- ERP Data Management: Maintaining accurate supplier details, pricing, lead times and part information in the ERP system.
- Supplier Administration: Keeping supplier documentation up to date and maintaining accurate records.
- Invoice Support: Assisting with invoice matching and basic query resolution in collaboration with finance.
- Team Support: Providing ad-hoc administrative support such as filing, document management and process updates.
- Continuous Improvement: Assisting with procurement process improvements to enhance efficiency.
What You’ll Bring
- Early Procurement Experience: Some experience in procurement, purchasing or administrative support is helpful but not essential.
- Organisation & Accuracy: Strong attention to detail and good organisational skills.
- Systems Confidence: Comfortable using IT systems. ERP/MRP experience is desirable (we use Infor Syteline).
- Clear Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills for supplier and internal liaison.
- Procurement Awareness: Basic understanding of purchasing processes and supplier management.
- Ability to Prioritise: Comfortable working across multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Positive Attitude: Proactive problem-solving approach and enthusiasm to learn.
- Data Skills: Excel and experience with basic data analysis skills is a plus.
Qualifications
A-levels, equivalent or a relevant vocational qualification. CIPS (or working towards it) is desirable but not essential.
More about us
- Vision: Help protect the territory and airspace of NATO countries and their allies.
- Mission: Be a world-leading provider of autonomous technology for Surveillance applications and Defence.
- Values: Be a Good Egg, Do cool stuff, Be empowered, We are one team, Things go wrong, Have fun.
Junior Buyer in Prudhoe employer: OpenWorks Engineering Ltd
Contact Detail:
OpenWorks Engineering Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Buyer in Prudhoe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the procurement field, attend industry events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching OpenWorks and understanding their mission and values. Tailor your responses to show how your skills align with their needs, especially in procurement and supplier management. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in what we do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Junior Buyer, you'll need to liaise with suppliers and internal teams. Role-play common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence and ensure you can articulate your thoughts clearly.
✨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 that you’re serious about joining our awesome team at OpenWorks. Let’s make great things happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Buyer in Prudhoe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Buyer role. Highlight any relevant experience in procurement or administrative support, and don’t forget to showcase your organisational skills and attention to detail!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention how your skills align with what we’re looking for and why you’d love to be part of our team.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since clear communication is key in this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use concise language and check for any typos or errors. We want to see your ability to communicate effectively right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at OpenWorks Engineering Ltd
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your understanding of procurement processes and supplier management. Familiarise yourself with common terms and practices in purchasing, as this will show your enthusiasm for the role and help you engage in meaningful conversations.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your organisational abilities and attention to detail. Think of situations where you successfully managed multiple tasks or maintained accurate records, as these are crucial skills for a Junior Buyer.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since the role involves liaising with suppliers and internal teams, being able to communicate effectively will be key. Consider role-playing with a friend to refine your responses.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s procurement processes and team dynamics. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values and career goals.
