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- Tasks: Execute procurement activities for engineering components and support R&D and manufacturing.
- Company: Join Oxford Ionics, a leader in quantum computing innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of quantum technology while working with top scientists and engineers.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in procurement, strong MRP knowledge, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on continuous improvement and real-world impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, is pioneering the next generation of quantum computing. Using our world-leading trapped-ion technology, we are building the most powerful, accurate and reliable quantum systems to tackle problems that today’s supercomputers cannot solve.
We are looking for a hands-on Procurement Buyer to join the Systems team at Oxford Ionics. In this role, you will be responsible for executing day-to-day procurement activities across engineering components and sub-assemblies, supporting both R&D programmes and the transition toward scalable manufacturing.
You will play a critical role in ensuring materials are available at the right time, cost, and quality, while maintaining strong supplier relationships and supporting accurate BOM and MRP workflows. This role is highly embedded within engineering and manufacturing teams and is essential to enabling delivery against the technical roadmap. You will help shape the procurement processes and outputs that underpin the development of the world’s most advanced quantum systems.
What you will be responsible for:
- Execute end-to-end purchasing of engineering components and sub-assemblies, from requisition through to delivery.
- Coordinate supplier communication, pricing, lead times, and call-offs to support R&D and manufacturing schedules.
- Support BOM accuracy and maintenance in collaboration with engineering teams.
- Work within existing MRP, Kanban, and inventory systems to support production and development workflows.
- Manage RFQs, quotes, and supplier comparisons to ensure value for money.
- Support procurement compliance, documentation, and record keeping in line with company and regulatory requirements.
- Act as a first point of contact for procurement-related queries from internal stakeholders.
- Provide hands-on support with stock coordination, kitting, and stores activities where required to unblock delivery.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of procurement processes as the organisation scales.
Requirements
To be successful, you will need strong foundations in manufacturing procurement, with hands-on experience supporting engineering-led environments. We are looking for someone who can work at pace, communicate clearly with technical stakeholders, and translate requirements into effective purchasing actions.
You should be comfortable operating in a fast-moving, highly technical environment where priorities evolve and execution matters.
You’d be a great fit if you have:
- At least 3 years’ experience in a procurement or purchasing role within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- Strong understanding of MRP systems and manufacturing procurement workflows.
- Experience procuring electro-mechanical components or sub-assemblies.
- Solid commercial awareness, including supplier negotiation and cost management.
- Confidence working directly with engineers, production teams, and suppliers.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Comfort managing procurement data, documentation, and trackers.
- Proficiency with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive).
Desirable experience includes:
- Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience.
- MCIPS qualification or working towards certification.
- Experience supporting pull-based or JIT supply chains.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings or technical specifications.
- Exposure to regulated or high-complexity technical environments.
Benefits
Be part of a team that’s shaping the future of quantum. We offer more than just a role; you’ll join a world-class community of scientists, engineers, and innovators working to unlock the full potential of quantum computing.
We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career alongside industry leaders, a competitive salary with IonQ stock options, an annual performance bonus, generous annual leave, flexible hybrid working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more.
Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Procurement Buyer employer: Oxford Ionics
Contact Detail:
Oxford Ionics Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the quantum tech space, especially those at Oxford Ionics or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that job descriptions just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into procurement processes and the specific challenges faced in engineering environments. Show us you understand the nuances of MRP systems and how they impact manufacturing workflows.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage with our team on social media or through professional platforms. Ask questions about the role or the company culture. It shows your enthusiasm and helps you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
When you get an interview, be ready to discuss real-world examples of how you've improved procurement processes in the past. We love hearing about your hands-on experience and how it can benefit our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Buyer role. Highlight your experience in manufacturing procurement and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about quantum technology and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency with MRP systems and Google Workspace. If you have experience with electro-mechanical components or engineering drawings, make sure to highlight that too. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Oxford Ionics!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Ionics
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially in manufacturing environments. Be ready to discuss your experience with MRP systems and how you've managed supplier relationships in the past.
✨Showcase Your Technical Communication Skills
Since this role involves working closely with engineering teams, practice explaining complex procurement concepts in simple terms. Highlight any experiences where you successfully communicated with technical stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of examples where you improved procurement processes or resolved supply chain bottlenecks, and be ready to share these stories.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Bring examples of how you've managed procurement data and documentation effectively. Discuss any tools or methods you use to stay organised, as attention to detail is crucial in this role.
