Assistant Buyer

Naughton Contracts Limited (NCL) Assistant Buyer Location: Office Based - Hatfield, Hertfordshire Competitive day rate (Contract) or salary (PAYE) available, depending on your preference Naughton Contracts Ltd is a young, ambitious civil engineering company delivering groundworks, earthworks, basements, site set-up and enabling, and civil engineering solutions across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Including major data centre developments. We're looking for an Assistant Buyer to join our team at our Hatfield head office and support the procurement of materials, plant, and subcontractors that keep our projects running efficiently. About the Role As Assistant Buyer, you'll support the buying team in procuring materials, plant, and subcontractor packages across our core service areas. Groundworks, earthworks, basements, civil engineering, and site set-up/enabling. This is a great opportunity for someone early in their procurement career to develop their skills within a growing, hands-on team. Key Responsibilities

• Support the buying team in sourcing materials, plant, and subcontractor packages for ongoing projects.
• Assist in obtaining and comparing quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Help prepare and issue purchase orders and enquiries, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery to site.
• Maintain and update supplier and subcontractor records, pricing schedules, and procurement trackers.
• Chase order confirmations, delivery dates, and resolve minor supply queries.
• Build working relationships with suppliers and subcontractors under the guidance of senior buyers.
• Liaise with site and project teams to understand material and plant requirements.
• Support the wider commercial team with general administrative and procurement tasks.
• Learn and develop knowledge of construction materials, plant, and subcontractor packages.

Experience

• Some experience in a buying, procurement, or administrative role is beneficial, but not essential.
• Interest in developing a career in construction procurement.
• Experience within civil engineering, groundworks, or construction is an advantage but not required.

Knowledge

• A willingness to learn about civil engineering, groundworks, and construction methods and materials.
• Basic understanding of purchasing processes is helpful but can be developed on the job.
• Awareness of the importance of accuracy and timeliness in a procurement environment.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (including Maths and English) or equivalent.
• A relevant qualification in Purchasing & Supply (e.g. CIPS Level 2/3) is desirable but not essential.

Skills

• Good numerical and administrative skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly Excel and Outlook).
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• A proactive, willing attitude and eagerness to learn.
• Ability to work well within a team and follow guidance from senior buyers.

Why Work for Us

• Join a young, ambitious, and fast-growing civil engineering company delivering complex projects across the UK and Europe.
• Be part of a business known for hitting deadlines, staying on budget, and delivering to the highest industry standards.
• Work on exciting, high-profile projects including advanced manufacturing and data centre developments.
• A professional, hands-on team environment where your contribution is valued and your development supported.
• Genuine opportunity to grow and progress within the company as it establishes itself as a leading player in the industry.

If you have the skills and enthusiasm to excel in this role, we would love to hear from you. Naughton Contracts is an Equal Opportunities employer and does not discriminate against any protected characteristic. Note for Recruitment Agencies: We are not using Recruitment Agencies for this role. In the event of speculative CV submissions, no fees will be applicable