At a Glance
- Tasks: Collaborate with buyers to ensure timely supply chain delivery and improve processes.
- Company: Join Thorlabs, a leading global optical technologies company.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, healthcare, and 25 days holiday plus public holidays.
- Other info: Enjoy customised training, free refreshments, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in production planning and purchasing while working in a hybrid role.
- Qualifications: Experience in production planning or purchasing and strong Microsoft Office skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
To directly collaborate with, and support, the Tables Business Unit buyers to ensure our supply chain delivers to schedule; the accuracy of data between purchase orders and supplier confirmations is of good quality; and drive any identified areas for continuous improvement, in line with our best practice lean methodologies.
Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (Hybrid working available after 6 months training)
Department: Tables
Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 30 minute Teams interview; Second stage: Onsite 2 hour interview
Who we are: Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture of a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.
Where you will be working: It’s a hybrid role, working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely as well as your home. Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.
What is essential to us:
- Experience in production planning or purchasing
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems (ideally Microsoft D365)
- Strong knowledge of, and background using Microsoft Office
- Experience in data analysis and Microsoft Excel is highly desirable
- Familiar with flow-based production principles, pull systems, and kanban concepts is highly desirable
- A good understanding of LEAN manufacturing techniques, training available through employment
- Detail oriented and works in a structured and organised manner
- A competent problem solver who takes strong ownership of tasks
- Ability to multitask, time manage and work independently
- A positive approach to continuous improvement activities
- A flexible approach to work requests – prepared to go the extra mile to get the job done
- Strong communication skills with the ability to present new ideas
- Willing to change hours as needed to ensure manufacturing continuity
What we would like you to do/ to see:
- Maintain regular contact with suppliers to ensure accurate delivery dates
- Regularly run purchasing reports to ensure accurate data is communicated to the planning and operational teams
- Support buyers by placing orders with the supply chain
- Monitor low stock reports to ensure procurement activities are in place
- Collaborate with the planning team to support any pull in/push out needs against component requirements within the supply chain
- Review and investigate any supplier invoice queries
- Prepare and submit specific vendor monthly metrics
- Support with placing purchase orders when required
- Support with MRP/ERP data maintenance
- Use lean manufacturing methodologies to identify opportunities to improve material flow within the supply chain
- Attend supplier meetings alongside buyers, either on-site or by travelling
What will you get: At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.
And the benefits are: Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.
This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old. This is a legal requirement.
This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa. All offers of employment are subject to eligibility to work in the UK.
We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.
Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail recruitment@thorlabs.com.
We are Disability Confident Committed.
Junior Buyer - Tables - 1969 in Ely employer: Vytran LLC
Thorlabs is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in our state-of-the-art facility in Witchford, Ely, just a short distance from Cambridge. With a strong focus on employee development through customised training and a supportive culture that encourages continuous improvement, we provide competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a hybrid working model after initial training, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful career growth in the optical technologies sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Buyer - Tables - 1969 in Ely
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Thorlabs and their Tables Business Unit. Understanding their products and values will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the two-stage interview process by doing mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on common questions related to purchasing and supply chain management to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Be ready to discuss your experience with ERP/MRP systems and data analysis. Bring examples of how you've used these skills in past roles to demonstrate your value to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in the interviewers' minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Buyer - Tables - 1969 in Ely
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Buyer role. Highlight any experience you have in production planning, purchasing, or using ERP/MRP systems. We want to see how your skills align 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 passionate about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of lean manufacturing techniques if you have them!
Show Off Your Data Skills:Since data analysis is key for this role, make sure to showcase your experience with Microsoft Excel and any relevant data management tools. We love candidates who can demonstrate their analytical skills clearly!
Apply Early!:This is a rolling campaign, so don’t wait too long to submit your application. The sooner you apply through our website, the better your chances of getting noticed. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vytran LLC
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Junior Buyer, you'll be dealing with data analysis and purchasing reports. Brush up on your Excel skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles. Maybe even prepare a few examples of how you’ve improved processes using data!
✨Lean Manufacturing Insights
Familiarise yourself with lean manufacturing principles, especially flow-based production and kanban concepts. Be prepared to share your understanding of these methodologies and how they can be applied to improve material flow within the supply chain.
✨Communication is Key
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Think about times when you've had to present ideas or collaborate with teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, as you may need to demonstrate this during your interview.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
The ability to solve problems and take ownership of tasks is crucial. Prepare some examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you tackled them. This will show your potential employer that you're proactive and capable of handling the responsibilities of the job.
