Trainee Buyer

Location: Stanger, KwaZulu-Natal

Salary: Market Related

Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract (12 Months)

About The Opportunity

A leading organisation in the environmental and industrial services sector is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented

Trainee Buyer to join its Procurement Department on a 12-month fixed-term contract.

This role offers an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to develop a career in procurement, purchasing, and supply chain management while gaining practical experience in supplier management, sourcing, contract administration, and ERP systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide procurement support to operational departments in accordance with company procurement policies and procedures.
• Manage Request for Quotation (RFQ) processes and obtain competitive supplier quotations.
• Assist with supplier sourcing, evaluation, and selection processes.
• Ensure goods and services are procured at the best total cost of ownership (TCO) and under favourable contractual terms.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve cost savings.
• Ensure all purchases are aligned with approved Purchase Requisitions (PRs).
• Procure goods and services only from approved vendors.
• Prepare and process compliant Purchase Orders (POs).
• Administer procurement transactions within the ERP system.
• Monitor outstanding purchase orders and follow up on deliveries.
• Investigate and resolve pricing, contract, and supplier queries.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation.
• Generate procurement reports and support departmental savings initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with contract management procedures and procurement governance requirements.
• Build and maintain professional supplier relationships.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders regarding order status and delivery timelines.

Minimum Requirements

• Certificate, Diploma, or Degree in Procurement, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (NQF Level 6 or higher).
• 1–2 years' experience within a procurement, purchasing, or buying environment.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills.
• Computer literacy with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Google Sheets, and Google Docs.
• Exposure to ERP systems such as SAP, SAP ByDesign, Sage, or similar platforms will be advantageous.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and numerical skills.
• Excellent planning and organisational ability.
• Professional and ethical conduct.
• Customer-focused approach.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Commitment to continuous learning and development.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

What We Offer

• Valuable hands-on procurement and supply chain experience.
• Exposure to supplier negotiations and contract administration.
• Opportunity to work with experienced procurement professionals.
• A supportive environment focused on learning and career development.