The Role
The Materials and Purchasing Assistant plays a vital role in supporting production by ensuring the efficient management of inventory, timely procurement of materials, and smooth progression of manufacturing builds.
This varied position combines stores control, goods-in activities, picking and kitting, inventory management, and purchasing coordination to help maintain uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
You will work closely with the Workshop Manager, Production, Planning, and Purchasing teams to ensure materials and components are available in line with build schedules and business requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive and inspect incoming goods, checking deliveries against purchase orders and delivery paperwork.
- Accurately book stock into the ERP system and maintain inventory records.
- Pick and kit materials and components in line with production orders and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
- Monitor stock levels and maintain stock accuracy through regular cycle counts and discrepancy investigations.
- Support purchasing activities, including: Raising purchase orders Following up supplier orders Reviewing supplier confirmations Assisting with supplier communications
- Pack and book consignments, ranging from small parcels to palletised shipments.
- Monitor the status of production builds and ensure material availability aligns with production schedules.
- Assist in identifying and resolving material shortages to minimise disruption to manufacturing operations.
- Maintain high standards of housekeeping, health and safety, and quality compliance at all times.
- Work collaboratively with internal teams to support operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
Skills & Experience Required
- Essential Previous experience within a stores, stock control, purchasing, materials planning is ideal
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.
- Good IT skills and the ability to work across multiple systems, including ERP software.
- Ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to build effective working relationships.
- Desirable Experience working within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- Knowledge of purchasing processes and inventory management systems.
- Understanding of Bills of Materials (BOMs) and production planning processes.