At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing and shipping operations in a dynamic scientific instruments company.
- Company: Leading scientific instruments business at the forefront of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and hands-on experience.
- Other info: 12-month maternity cover with potential for full-time role.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced team and make an impact in logistics and procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in shipping/logistics is essential; strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 19200 £ per year.
We’re working with a leading scientific instruments business that operates at the forefront of innovation, supporting industries including pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, petrochemicals, and advanced materials. Due to maternity cover, they are now looking for a Purchasing & Shipping Administrator to join their Operations team for a 12-month contract.
The Role
This is a varied, hands-on role supporting the smooth running of procurement and logistics operations. You’ll be responsible for managing purchasing activity, coordinating shipments, and ensuring accurate records across systems. You’ll work closely with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure materials and products are sourced, shipped, and delivered efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
- Purchasing
- Raise and process purchase orders for materials, supplies, and equipment
- Liaise with suppliers to obtain quotes and confirm delivery timelines
- Maintain accurate PO, invoice, and receipt records
- Monitor stock levels and support replenishment planning
- Shipping & Logistics (critical focus)
- Coordinate all outbound shipments to customers
- Prepare shipping documentation (packing lists, invoices, customs paperwork where required)
- Arrange freight and liaise with carriers to schedule deliveries
- Track shipments and proactively resolve delays or issues
- CRM & Systems
- Maintain accurate records of orders, customer information, and communications
- Update CRM/ERP systems with order and shipping data
- Support reporting and data accuracy across systems
- General Coordination
- Work closely with production, sales, and customer service teams
- Support smooth order fulfilment and customer communication
- Build strong relationships with suppliers and logistics partners
About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Essential: Experienced in shipping/logistics (this is a must-have)
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Confident working in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment
- Comfortable using CRM or ERP systems
- A strong communicator who enjoys coordinating between teams
- Desirable:
- Experience in purchasing or procurement
- Exposure to finance/admin tasks such as invoicing (Sage experience ideal)
- Understanding of import/export processes
Working Pattern & Salary
We are offering a 3-day per week, 12-month maternity cover contract, based in Alperton.
3 days per week: £18,000 – £19,200 pro rata. Candidates with shipping + purchasing + finance (invoicing/Sage) experience may be considered for a full-time 5-day role: £28,000 – £34,000.
Purchasing & Shipping Administrator employer: Parkside
Join a leading scientific instruments business in Alperton, where innovation meets opportunity. As a Purchasing & Shipping Administrator, you'll thrive in a supportive work culture that values collaboration and efficiency, with flexible working options and competitive pay. The company is committed to employee growth, offering hands-on experience in procurement and logistics while fostering strong relationships across teams and suppliers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing & Shipping Administrator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their products and services, especially in purchasing and shipping. We want you to impress them with your knowledge and enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Purchasing & Shipping Administrator, you’ll need to coordinate with various teams and suppliers. We suggest doing mock interviews or role-playing scenarios to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing & Shipping Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in shipping and logistics. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Purchasing & Shipping Administrator role. Share specific examples of your past experiences that relate to the job description.
Show Off Your Organisational Skills:Since this role requires strong attention to detail and organisation, mention any tools or methods you use to stay organised. We love seeing how you manage multiple tasks effectively!
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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Parkside
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of shipping and logistics. Understand the key responsibilities of the role, like managing purchase orders and coordinating shipments. Being able to discuss specific examples from your past experience will show that you're not just familiar with the terms, but you can actually apply them.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires a high level of organisation, prepare to demonstrate how you manage multiple tasks effectively. Bring examples of how you've kept accurate records or coordinated between teams in previous jobs. This will help the interviewers see that you can thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a Purchasing & Shipping Administrator, you'll need to liaise with suppliers and internal teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to prepare a few questions to ask during the interview to show your interest in collaboration and communication.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Systems
Since the job involves using CRM or ERP systems, it’s a good idea to get comfortable with these tools before the interview. If you have experience with Sage or similar software, be ready to discuss how you've used it to maintain records or support reporting. This will highlight your technical skills and readiness for the role.
