SUMMARY:
BUYER in Metal Industry

MAIN PUROSE:
To efficiently manage the procurement of materials and services, maintain optimised inventory levels, oversee logistics requirements, and coordinate with project teams for timely and cost-effective delivery of resources. The role ensures alignment between supplier management, internal project schedules, and overall production demands, contributing to organizational profitability and customer satisfaction.

POSITION INFO:
ACCOUNTABILITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Procurement (Material Sourcing & Supplier Management)

1. Identify, evaluate, negotiate and select suppliers for raw materials (e.g., steel, aluminium, glass), fixings/consumables, and subcontracted services (e.g., laser cutting, galvanizing).
2. Make use of Nesting Optimizer to determine material to be ordered.
3. Sources project-specific materials based on specifications from the Project Manager & Draughtsman.
4. Establish and maintain cost-effective, quality-focused supplier relationships.
5. Ensure procurement aligns with project requirements (buying per project) and manage preferred supplier contracts for cost stability.
6. Tracks and manages open orders to avoid delays.
7. Monitor supplier performance (on-time delivery, quality, pricing) and implement corrective actions where necessary.

1. Prepares and processes purchase orders (POs) for approved materials.
2. Ensures accurate documentation (price, quantity, specifications).
3. Coordinates purchase approvals from Procurement Manager or Project Manager.
4. Tracks and manages open orders to avoid delays.

1. Oversee the receipt, storage, and issuance of materials, fixings, and consumables.
2. Monitors supplier delivery schedules and follows up on late shipments.
3. Track stock levels per project to prevent over-ordering or shortages.
4. Implement and maintain an inventory control system (SAGE) for real-time stock visibility.
5. Ensure proper labelling, handling, and preservation of materials within designated storage areas.

1. Plan and manage the movement of materials from suppliers to the workshop and from the workshop to site.
2. Coordinates with the Project Team to ensure materials are transported on time.
3. Organise transportation (internal fleet or third-party providers) and plan routes to optimize cost and time.
4. Ensure compliance with safety regulations for loading/unloading, handling, and transportation of materials.
5. Coordinate just-in-time (JIT) deliveries to reduce storage costs and align with production schedules.

Reporting & Record-Keeping

• Maintains detailed procurement records (quotes, purchase orders, supplier agreements).
• Provides weekly procurement status reports to Managers.
• Analyses spending data to help improve purchasing strategies.

1. Collaborate with Project Managers, Draughting, and Workshop teams to forecast material needs based on project timelines.
2. Adjust procurement and inventory plans according to changes in project requirements or schedules.
3. Monitor lead times to prevent delays and proactively address any material shortages.
4. Ensure seamless alignment between procurement, production, and installation activities.

• Workshop Environment: The role is primarily based in a office setting.
• Exposure to Industrial Environments: Periodic exposure to noise, heavy machinery, and other typical workshop hazards; PPE usage required as per company policy.

Disability status

• Physical Requirements: Role requires movement between office, workshop, and site. Some lifting of documents or small parts may be necessary. Individuals with mobility considerations may require reasonable accommodations.

Knowledge, skills, and qualifications

• Education: Certificate / Diploma (NQF Level 5-6) in Procurement and Supply Chain Management or Logistics or Supply Chain Management or Purchasing & Supply Chain Management
• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years in procurement, logistics, or supply chain roles—preferably in a metal fabrication or construction environment.
• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of raw materials (steel, aluminium, etc.), fixings/consumables, and subcontract processes (e.g., laser cutting, galvanizing). Familiarity with inventory control systems (SAGA) and procurement software.
• Financial Acumen: Ability to analyse supplier quotes, and manage budgets.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word), Nesting Optimizer and any specialised procurement/inventory software.
• Communication: Strong negotiation and vendor management skills. Excellent communication and coordination with internal teams (Project, Workshop) and external stakeholders (suppliers, transporters).

Functional Competencies

• Procurement Management: Ability to negotiate contracts, ensure quality, and maintain supplier relationships.
• Inventory Control: Skilled in managing stock levels, implementing tracking systems, and reducing waste.
• Logistics Coordination: Competent in route planning, scheduling, and handling freight arrangements.
• Project Collaboration: Adept at working with cross-functional teams to align materials with project timelines.

• Attention to Detail: Maintains accurate records and carefully monitors supplier performance and stock levels.
• Problem-Solving: Quickly identifies procurement or logistics issues and formulates effective solutions.
• Adaptability: Able to adjust plans based on changing project needs or supplier constraints.
• Teamwork & Communication: Works well with colleagues and communicates effectively across departments.
• Integrity & Compliance: Adheres to ethical procurement standards and company policies.