At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage diverse contracts and support internal teams in procurement activities.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, dedicated to building a safer Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Attend our virtual drop-in session to learn more about the role!
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates with a passion for procurement and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 37682 - 44248 £ per year.
The main day-to-day focus of the role shall be to develop and/or manage a diverse range of Goods, Services and Works contracts in line with the Scottish Model of Procurement. The role will require active contribution towards the effective and efficient operation of the SPS Procurement team through a range of direct and indirect procurement activities. You will be given your own work portfolio to manage in addition to providing support to other members of the team.
Whilst carrying out your duties, you shall provide a procurement service to a range of internal stakeholder groups, including but not limited to: Estates & Technical Services; Operations Directorate; Digital Services; Human Resources; and Legal Services.
Tasks will include, for example:
- preparing tendering paperwork;
- utilising the electronic tendering system and associated electronic contract management module (PCS-T and ECM) and the Scottish Government portal for advertising contract opportunities (PCS);
- developing tender evaluation matrices and associated recommendation reports;
- undertaking contract reviews and pricing reviews, and making recommendations on whether to extend an existing contract or not;
- monitoring and measuring supplier performance; and
- exploring and obtaining added value.
In addition to the above duties, you will undertake on the job training and reflective learning, with a mix of formal and informal training and development. This will be a hybrid working role with a mix of remote and on-site working and it will, at times, require attendance at SPS headquarters or other sites as required.
Please note that SPS will be hosting a virtual drop-in session on 8th July 2026 between 10.30 and 12pm. The session will be available for 90 minutes, during which time interested candidates can drop in and have a chat with some of our previous Graduate Procurement Officers and members of our Management Team. If you are interested in attending, please contact Matt Christie via email.
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) operates in a fascinating, complex and rapidly changing environment. Our vision is to help build a safer Scotland by unlocking potential and transforming lives. To enable us to successfully deliver our vision, we are committed to nurturing and investing in our greatest strength and resource: Our People.
We are proud to employ a diverse range of people; each contributing their own unique experiences and skills to enhance the service we deliver. Whatever the role, you will find your SPS experience both challenging and rewarding. You will be committed to helping us to achieve our goals and in return we will be committed to helping you to achieve yours.
We employ approximately 5,000 staff across our prisons, headquarters, college, and training and storage facility. The hard work of our staff is the most critical component in the successful delivery of Scotland's prison system. We need professional, capable and motivated individuals who reflect Scotland's diversity to deliver effective and efficient activities and services to achieve our Mission and realise our Vision.
Whatever SPS profession you embark upon, you will be a valued member of the team, helping us build a Safer Scotland for the communities we serve. We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities.
Procurement Officer (Graduate) in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Prison Service
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every employee can thrive. With a strong commitment to personal and professional development, the SPS offers diverse career progression opportunities and a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. By joining our team as a Procurement Officer, you will play a vital role in enhancing public service while being part of a mission-driven organisation that values your contributions and invests in your growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Officer (Graduate) in Edinburgh
✨Get Involved in Procurement Groups
Join local and online procurement communities like the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS). Engaging in forums or attending their events can help us learn from the pros and make valuable connections that could lead to trainee opportunities.
✨Showcase Your Interest with Projects
Since we're looking for trainee roles, consider getting hands-on experience. Try volunteering for projects where you can assist with procurement tasks, even in a small capacity. This not only enhances your skills but also gives you concrete examples to share during interviews.
✨Keep an Eye on Internship Openings
Follow the careers page of companies like Scottish Prison Service closely for trainee programme announcements. These roles are often filled based on internship experiences or early talent programmes, so being proactive can give us an edge!
✨Leverage Your University Resources
Don’t forget about your university's career services! They often have exclusive connections with companies in the procurement sector, and they might even know of trainee opportunities at Scottish Prison Service. Make sure we utilise these resources to our advantage.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Officer (Graduate) in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Attention to Detail:In procurement, being meticulous is key! Make sure your CV highlights any experiences where you've managed budgets, negotiated prices, or handled contracts. This will show us at Scottish Prison Service that you're already thinking about the nitty-gritty details that matter in purchasing.
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:As a trainee in procurement, we’re keen to see your ability to analyse data and trends. If you've done any coursework or projects involving data analysis or market research, mention these. We love seeing candidates who are not only organised but also have a knack for understanding the bigger picture.
Express Your Eagerness to Learn:As a trainee, we're less focused on experience and more excited about potential! Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about procurement and what you hope to learn at Scottish Prison Service. Sharing your enthusiasm can set you apart from other applicants.
Keep It Professional but Personal:While we appreciate a formal tone, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Your application should reflect who you are and your motivation for wanting to work in procurement. A dash of personality mixed with professionalism will make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Brush up on the fundamentals of procurement and purchasing. Be ready to discuss key concepts like supplier evaluation and negotiation tactics, as these might come up in your interview with Scottish Prison Service. They'll be keen to see if you understand the basics and how they apply to real-world scenarios.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Tools
Get acquainted with popular procurement tools and software that companies like Scottish Prison Service might be using. Basic knowledge of systems like SAP Ariba or Coupa can really set you apart and show that you’re serious about stepping into the procurement field, even as a trainee.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, you might not have extensive experience, but employers like Scottish Prison Service want to see your enthusiasm for learning. Be prepared to share examples of how you've quickly picked up new skills or concepts in the past, emphasising your eagerness to develop in this role.
✨Prepare Smart Questions
Think about insightful questions you can ask the interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. You could ask about how procurement strategies are influenced by market trends or inquire about the training programmes Scottish Prison Service offers for their trainees. This shows you’re thinking ahead about your growth!
