Job Description

Purchasing & Shipping Administrator (12-Month FTC – Maternity Cover)  Alperton (On-site) 

3 days per week 

 £18,000 – £19,200 pro rata

(5-day option available for candidates with purchasing, shipping & finance experience: £28,000 – £34,000 FTE)

We’re working with a leading scientific instruments business that operates at the forefront of innovation, supporting industries including pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, petrochemicals, and advanced materials.

Due to maternity cover, they are now looking for a Purchasing & Shipping Administrator to join their Operations team for a 12-month contract.

The Role This is a varied, hands-on role supporting the smooth running of procurement and logistics operations. You’ll be responsible for managing purchasing activity, coordinating shipments, and ensuring accurate records across systems.

You’ll work closely with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure materials and products are sourced, shipped, and delivered efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing

Raise and process purchase orders for materials, supplies, and equipment

Liaise with suppliers to obtain quotes and confirm delivery timelines

Maintain accurate PO, invoice, and receipt records

Monitor stock levels and support replenishment planning Shipping & Logistics (critical focus)

Coordinate all outbound shipments to customers

Prepare shipping documentation (packing lists, invoices, customs paperwork where required)

Arrange freight and liaise with carriers to schedule deliveries

Track shipments and proactively resolve delays or issues CRM & Systems

Maintain accurate records of orders, customer information, and communications

Update CRM/ERP systems with order and shipping data

Support reporting and data accuracy across systems General Coordination

Work closely with production, sales, and customer service teams

Support smooth order fulfilment and customer communication

Build strong relationships with suppliers and logistics partners About You We’re looking for someone who is:

Essential: Experienced in shipping/logistics (this is a must-have)

Highly organised with strong attention to detail

Confident working in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment

Comfortable using CRM or ERP systems

A strong communicator who enjoys coordinating between teams Desirable:

Experience in purchasing or procurement

Exposure to finance/admin tasks such as invoicing (Sage experience ideal)

Understanding of import/export processes Working Pattern & Salary We are offering a 3-day per week, 12-month maternity cover contract, based in Alperton.

3 days per week: £18,000 – £19,200 pro rata

Candidates with shipping + purchasing + finance (invoicing/Sage) experience may be considered for a full-time 5-day role: £28,000 – £34,000