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- Tasks: Support the Buying Team in materials procurement and project management.
- Company: Join Watkin Jones Group, a leading developer in residential homes.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, hybrid work, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and make an impact from day one.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; enthusiasm and organisation are key.
- Other info: Full training provided with opportunities for career growth.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Are you organised, curious, and ready to learn? We are looking for a motivated Trainee to join our Buying Team and build a strong foundation in procurement within a fast-paced construction environment. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who wants hands-on experience, structured development and the chance to make a real impact from day one.
As a Trainee Buyer, you will support the team across the full materials procurement process, helping ensure our projects have what they need, when they need it. Your day will be varied and will include maintaining and updating our procurement schedule, attending meetings, taking notes and following up on actions. You will work closely with the Buying Team, providing both administrative and technical support, while processing material requisitions in line with our delegation thresholds. You will be responsible for issuing enquiries to suppliers and preparing simple cost comparisons to support decision making. You will raise and upload purchase orders, help schedule material quantities from drawings, and keep data accurate across our procurement logs and supplier databases. You will also assist in gathering competitive supplier quotations, supporting negotiations on cost, performance and lead times. At times, you will visit construction sites to discuss material queries with teams and meet suppliers to help build strong working relationships. You will also get involved in any additional tasks needed to support the smooth running of the Buying function.
Who we are looking for: You don’t need prior procurement experience; although any exposure to a construction environment or an interest in the sector would be an advantage. Most importantly, we are looking for enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. If you are confident using IT systems, comfortable working with numbers, well-organised, detail-focused and enjoy communicating with others, you will fit in perfectly. You will receive full training from an experienced team, gain exposure to real projects and live supplier engagement, and have opportunities to visit construction sites to see firsthand how your work contributes to successful delivery. Most importantly, you will join a supportive environment where your development truly matters.
Why Choose Watkin Jones Group? Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately GBP1.7bn of assets under management. Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We are committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.
Here’s what we can offer you:
- Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
- Wellbeing: Access to Your Wellbeing programme & OpenUp a confidential wellbeing platform.
- Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
- Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role within a forward-thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.
Trainee Buyer employer: Watkin Jones Group
Contact Detail:
Watkin Jones Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the construction and procurement sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, engage in discussions, and don’t be shy about asking for advice or insights. You never know who might have a lead on a Trainee Buyer position!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent developments in the construction industry. This will help you show genuine interest and make a great impression when you chat with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Trainee Buyer, you'll need to interact with suppliers and team members regularly. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Watkin Jones Group. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for learning and the construction sector shine through. We want to see that you're excited about the opportunity to grow with us!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences. Even if you don’t have direct procurement experience, any related skills or interests can make a big difference!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Trainee Buyer role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people and shows you’re serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Watkin Jones Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, take some time to research the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their procurement processes and any recent developments in the construction sector. This will show your enthusiasm and help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
As a Trainee Buyer, being organised is key. Prepare a few examples of how you've managed tasks or projects in the past. Whether it's keeping track of deadlines or coordinating with others, demonstrating your organisational skills will make a great impression.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the Buying Team and their processes. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into what the role entails. For instance, you could ask about the types of materials they procure or how they handle supplier negotiations.
✨Be Ready to Learn
Since this role is all about learning and development, express your eagerness to grow within the company. Share examples of times when you've taken the initiative to learn something new, whether through coursework or hands-on experience. This will highlight your motivation and fit for the role.