Purchasing / Production Assistant

About the Role

We're looking for a Purchasing Assistant to join a small but busy office within a long-established precision engineering company. This is a varied role where no two days are the same - you could be raising purchase orders/getting quotes, downloading work orders for the shop floor and helping to progress-chase parts with the production team, data entry and administration, preparing packages.
The role is ideal for someone who enjoys being hands-on, is confident with numbers and Excel, and wants to learn and grow within a supportive environment. You'll be working closely with the Production Manager and wider team, supporting purchasing, production, and planning activities while also getting exposure to the engineering and manufacturing side of the business.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Raising purchase orders and obtaining supplier quotes.
• Downloading and distributing work orders for the shop floor.
• Exporting and manipulating data in Excel to support planning and reporting.
• Carrying out accurate data entry across purchasing, production, and accounts systems.
• Progress-chasing orders and ensuring materials are delivered on time.
• Assisting the Production Manager with day-to-day tasks and project support.
• Hands-on support in the workshop/engineering environment when required.
• General office administration in a small, close-knit team.

What We're Looking For

This role is less about experience and more about attitude and potential. We want someone who:

• Has strong Excel skills and is confident working with numbers.
• Is organised, methodical, and detail-focused.
• Is adaptable and happy to pitch in with a wide variety of tasks.
• Has the confidence to liaise with suppliers, engineers, and colleagues.
• Thrives in a small-office environment where everyone supports each other.
• Is eager to learn and develop within purchasing, planning, and production.
• Is comfortable occasionally working in a hands-on engineering/production setting.

Previous experience in purchasing or manufacturing is a bonus but not essential - training and support will be provided for the right person with the right mindset.

Benefits

• Competitive salary £30,000 - £37,000 (depending on experience)
• 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
• Pension scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Profit share scheme