Buyer

At John Sisk & Son, we’re more than a construction company. We’re a family‑owned business with a global reach, committed to building excellence in every project. We deliver trust, certainty and value to our clients while embracing innovation and shaping the future of construction. The Assistant Buyer will support the Purchasing Manager and wider Procurement team in the sourcing and administration of construction materials and services. The role offers a strong foundation for someone looking to develop a career in procurement, with opportunities for learning, growth and contribution to key projects across Ireland.

Responsibilities

• Place purchase orders for materials and plant in support of reactive maintenance works.
• Raise and process purchase orders accurately and promptly in response to site requisitions.
• Source materials and plant to meet programme, cost and quality requirements.
• Obtain and compare supplier quotations when required.
• Resolve order discrepancies, invoice queries and delivery issues.
• Maintain accurate procurement records within the company system (COINS).

Take responsibility for

• Placing orders against agreed suppliers, rates and framework agreements where available.
• Keeping requisitioners and site teams updated on order status and lead times.
• Maintaining up‑to‑date supplier and pricing information.

Build and maintain effective working relationships with suppliers and the wider supply chain. Liaise with site teams, supervisors and the commercial function to understand demand and priorities. Support cost control by securing competitive pricing and flagging price increases or supply risks. At all times act in a suitable & professional manner.

Involvement but no responsibility for

• Negotiation of supplier framework agreements and terms.
• Supplier selection and approval.
• Procurement strategy.

This is an order‑placement role; exposure to wider buying and negotiation to increase as capability develops. Suitable for a newly qualified or developing buyer.

Qualifications & Experience

• Some experience in a buying, purchasing or procurement administration role (construction, rail or maintenance an advantage).
• Experience of the COINS system desirable.
• Ability to effectively utilise a range of Microsoft Office tools.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in processing orders.
• Ability to work at pace in a reactive environment and manage competing priorities.
• Demonstrate clear written & oral communication.
• Demonstrate ownership / commercial awareness.
• Effective time management, organisational and interpersonal skills.

Behaviours / Key Attributes

• Sense of urgency and responsiveness.
• Uses initiative.
• Calm and resilient under pressure.
• Collaborative team player.
• Accountability and ownership.
• Accuracy and a "right first time" mindset.
• Integrity and commercial ethics - fair, transparent dealings with suppliers and acting in the company’s interest at all times.

Desirable Qualifications / Training

• Experience of COINS or a similar ERP / procurement system.
• Knowledge of construction / rail materials and plant.

Key Requirements

• Flexibility to work on‑site approximately one day per week, with the remaining days office‑based or hybrid after probation.
• Willingness to travel to sites across Ireland as required.
• Collaborative, team‑oriented mindset with a proactive approach to learning.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.
• 26 days annual leave plus additional company days.
• Pension and benefits.
• Structured development and training opportunities.
• Exposure to major construction projects.
• Supportive team culture and flexible working.

Equal Opportunities and Commitment

We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion or any other protected characteristic. Reasonable adjustments are available during the recruitment process. We know the confidence gap and imposter phenomenon can stop talented candidates applying. You do not need to meet every criterion - your skills and potential matter. Don’t hold back, we want to hear from you.

All recruitment materials comply with legal and regulatory requirements including the EU Pay Transparency Directive and the Equality Acts UK and Ireland.