Assistant Purchasing Officer

The City and County of Swansea is seeking a proactive Assistant Purchasing Officer (Grade 5) on a one‑year fixed‑term contract to support Purchasing, Stores and Financial Administration within the Specialist Parks and Technical Services department.

You will raise and approve purchase orders, process invoices, receive goods, monitor supplier spend, maintain accurate stock and purchasing records, and ensure PPE and other resources are available when needed.

The role also involves P‑card monitoring, database administration, regular stocktakes and deputising for the Purchasing Officer, while working closely with managers and suppliers to secure best value.

• Raise, review and approve purchase orders in line with council procedures.
• Process supplier invoices and ensure timely payment.
• Receive and inspect goods, update stock records and conduct regular stocktakes.
• Monitor supplier spend and support value‑for‑money initiatives.
• Maintain accurate purchasing and inventory databases.
• Manage P‑card usage, reconcile statements and ensure compliance.
• Liaise with managers, suppliers and internal teams to resolve supply issues.
• Ensure availability of PPE, materials and resources for Parks and Cleansing Services.
• Deputise for the Purchasing Officer as required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of purchasing and store processes.

• Grade 5 level administrative experience or equivalent.
• Strong numeracy, analytical and organisational abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Office and purchasing software.
• Ability to work confidently within established procedures and guidelines.
• Experience of purchase order processing, invoicing and stock control preferred.
• Ability to produce accurate, professionally written records.
• Flexible, proactive and able to meet tight deadlines.
• Commitment to the Council's "Safeguarding is Everybody's Business" principle.
• Aptitude to acquire technical competence quickly.