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- Tasks: Source and purchase structural steel and architectural metalwork components for exciting projects.
- Company: Join a respected specialist contractor with strong international backing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, full training, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a clear pathway for career development.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing company with opportunities to work on high-profile projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in steel or metalwork preferred; open to trainees eager to learn.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Cambridge/Haverhill/Newmarket (2 days + 3 days home)
Salary: Up to £50,000
Company Overview:
Our client is a well-established and highly respected specialist contractor within the structural steelwork and architectural metalwork sector. With decades of experience, the business has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality steel fabrication and installation services across the UK, operating across commercial, residential, education, and infrastructure sectors. The company is part of a major international main contractor, providing strong financial backing, access to large-scale projects, and a clear platform for continued growth. With ambitious expansion plans in place, the business is entering an exciting phase of development creating genuine long-term career opportunities for individuals looking to progress within a growing organisation.
Role Overview:
Due to ongoing growth, the company is looking to appoint a Buyer to support procurement activities across structural steelwork and architectural metalwork projects. This role will play a key part in ensuring materials and services are sourced competitively, delivered on time, and aligned with project requirements. The company is open to both:
- An experienced Buyer
- A junior/trainee-level individual within the steel or metalwork sector who is looking to develop into a Buyer role, with full training and support provided.
Key Responsibilities:
- Procurement of structural steel, plate, sections, and associated materials
- Sourcing and purchasing architectural metalwork components (balustrades, staircases, balconies, etc.)
- Managing supplier relationships and negotiating best value agreements
- Raising purchase orders and tracking deliveries to meet project programmes
- Liaising with internal departments including design, fabrication, and project teams
- Monitoring market trends and material price fluctuations
- Supporting cost control and margin improvement across projects
- Ensuring compliance with company quality and procurement procedures
Requirements:
Experienced Buyers:
- Proven experience as a Buyer within structural steelwork, fabrication, or construction
- Strong understanding of steel materials, fabrication processes, or metalwork packages
- Experience negotiating with suppliers and managing procurement processes
Junior / Trainee Applicants:
- Background within the structural steel or architectural metalwork sector (essential)
- Strong interest in moving into a commercial/procurement role
- Willingness to learn and develop within a Buyer position
General:
- Ability to read technical drawings/specifications (desirable)
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (experience with procurement systems beneficial)
What's on Offer:
- Opportunity to join a market-leading steelwork and metalwork specialist
- Backing of a large international group providing stability and growth
- Clear pathway for career progression and long-term development
- Full training and support for junior individuals looking to become a Buyer
- Exposure to a wide variety of high-profile projects
- Supportive and experienced team environment
- Competitive salary and benefits package
Buyer / Purchaser - Steel & Metalwork in Colne employer: The Highfield Company
Contact Detail:
The Highfield Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer / Purchaser - Steel & Metalwork in Colne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings in structural steel and metalwork.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Buyer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to get the best deals. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence before those crucial discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer / Purchaser - Steel & Metalwork in Colne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buyer role. Highlight any relevant experience in procurement, especially within structural steel or metalwork. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're interested in the role and how your skills can benefit us. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love to see enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your organisational and communication skills, as well as any experience with Microsoft Office or procurement systems. These are key for the Buyer position, and we want to know how you can contribute to our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Highfield Company
✨Know Your Steel and Metalwork
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of structural steel and architectural metalwork. Familiarise yourself with the types of materials, fabrication processes, and common components like balustrades and staircases. This will show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested in the role and understand the industry.
✨Prepare for Procurement Questions
Expect questions about procurement processes and supplier negotiations. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or negotiated deals. If you're a junior applicant, consider how you would approach these situations and be ready to discuss your willingness to learn.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Buyer, you'll need to juggle multiple tasks, from raising purchase orders to tracking deliveries. Be prepared to discuss how you stay organised and manage your time effectively. You might even want to bring along a simple example of a system or method you've used in the past to keep track of projects.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the company's growth plans, the team you'll be working with, or how they support career development. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.