At a Glance
- Tasks: Source critical electronic components for advanced space systems and manage procurement activities.
- Company: Leading space organisation with a focus on innovation and technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work schedule, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for career advancement in a cutting-edge industry.
- Why this job: Join the space sector and contribute to groundbreaking projects that shape the future.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in electronics procurement with experience in high-reliability environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A leading space organisation is seeking a Technical Buyer with a strong background in electronics procurement to support the sourcing of critical EEE components for advanced space systems. This is not a general purchasing role. We are specifically seeking someone with hands-on experience sourcing electronic components, printed circuit boards (PCBs) and PCB assemblies (PCBAs) within a highly regulated engineering or manufacturing environment.
Working closely with Engineering, Quality and Project teams, you'll take ownership of sourcing and procurement delivery across electronic assemblies, PCBAs and production builds:
- Procurement of EEE components including PCBs, raw boards, PCBAs, semiconductors, connectors, harnesses and sensors
- Reviewing BOMs, technical drawings and specifications with Engineering teams
- Managing component obsolescence, lead-time challenges and approved alternatives
- Running procurement activities from RFI/RFP through to negotiation and delivery
- Supplier onboarding and management across global supply chains
- Maintaining ERP/MRP data accuracy and supplier information
- Ensuring compliance with ISO 9001, AS9100 and export control requirements
What We're Looking For:
- 10+ years' experience in electronics procurement, including electronic components, EEE parts, PCBs, raw boards and PCB assemblies
- Experience within the space sector is strongly preferred, although candidates from aerospace, defence, semiconductor or other high-reliability electronics environments will also be considered
- Strong understanding of electronic component sourcing, PCB/PCBA supply chains, lead times, obsolescence management and lifecycle challenges
- Experience reviewing BOMs and working closely with Engineering teams
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Infor LN or IFS
- Familiarity with ESA, ECSS, NASA or MIL-STD processes and programmes (desirable)
Please note successful candidates will need to undergo BPSS clearance.
Technical Buyer - Electronics in Harwell employer: Practicus
Join a pioneering space organisation in Harwell, Oxfordshire, where your expertise as a Technical Buyer will be valued and nurtured. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and hands-on experience in sourcing critical electronic components for advanced space systems. Enjoy the unique advantage of a flexible working arrangement with 4 days on-site and 1 day working from home, alongside competitive benefits that support your professional development in a highly regulated and rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Buyer - Electronics in Harwell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the space sector or related fields. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your hands-on experience with electronic components and PCB sourcing. Share specific examples of challenges you've tackled in procurement to demonstrate your value.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talent that fits our needs. Tailor your application to showcase how your skills align with the Technical Buyer role and the unique demands of the space sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on relevant regulations and standards like ISO 9001 and AS9100. Be ready to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance in past roles. This will show you’re not just a buyer, but a strategic partner in the procurement process.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Buyer - Electronics in Harwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technical Buyer role. Highlight your experience in electronics procurement and any specific projects you've worked on that relate to sourcing EEE components. We want to see how your background fits with what we're looking for!
Showcase Relevant Experience:In your cover letter, dive into your hands-on experience with electronic components, PCBs, and PCBAs. Share specific examples of challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will help us understand your problem-solving skills in a regulated environment.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to technical details!
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 us and what we do in the space sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Practicus
✨Know Your Electronics Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of electronic components, PCBs, and PCBAs. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully sourced these items, especially in regulated environments. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the terms but have hands-on experience.
✨Understand the Space Sector
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges and requirements of the space sector. If you can, read up on ESA, ECSS, or NASA standards. Being able to speak about how these regulations impact procurement will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Technical Discussions
Expect to dive deep into technical discussions during your interview. Review BOMs and be prepared to explain how you’ve collaborated with engineering teams in the past. Highlight any specific projects where you managed lead times or component obsolescence.
✨Showcase Your ERP/MRP Experience
Since experience with systems like SAP or Oracle is crucial, be ready to discuss how you’ve used these tools in your previous roles. Share specific examples of how you maintained data accuracy and managed supplier information effectively.
