Technical Buyer
Our client is seeking an experienced Technical Buyer with strong engineering understanding and mining-sector procurement experience. This role is responsible for the end-to-end technical evaluation and sourcing of mining equipment components, spare parts, and specialised items. The successful candidate will act as a critical link between Procurement, Engineering, Aftermarket, and Production, ensuring all technical requirements are accurately interpreted and fulfilled.
This position requires a detail-driven, analytical individual with strong supplier engagement skills, excellent technical interpretation ability, and the discipline to follow structured procurement processes.
Qualifications & Experience
Matric / Grade 12
National Diploma in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
CIPS Level 4 (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply)
3-5 years' technical procurement experience within the mining sector
Mining Components Sourcing — Experience sourcing and evaluating mining components and spare parts
Technical Drawing Interpretation — Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and BOMs
ERP system knowledge
Understanding of OEM standards, mining safety regulations, and technical compliance
Strong analytical and technical evaluation skills
Solid understanding of mining equipment and machinery components
Excellent communication and negotiation skills
Cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Aftermarket, and Production
Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines
Willingness to travel for supplier meetings, sourcing missions, and technical reviews
Ethical, transparent behaviour and respect for structured processes
Basic Function
Technical Sourcing — Responsible for end-to-end technical evaluation and sourcing of mining equipment spare parts and components
Support Procurement with both standard and alternative items as defined in supplier SLAs
Act as the technical liaison between Procurement and Engineering to ensure accurate interpretation of requirements
Key Responsibilities
Supplier Sourcing — Source and evaluate suppliers for new and alternative parts
Assess suppliers based on capability, certifications, cost competitiveness, and lead time
Maintain a category-based sourcing strategy for all technical commodities
Collaborate with Engineering to understand drawings, material specs, and product functionality
Conduct technical assessments to verify compliance with standards
Support Procurement with complex technical purchases
Initiate and complete all RTD forms
Identify cost-saving opportunities through alternative sourcing and vendor innovation
Ensure compliance with ISO 9001:2015 requirements
Resolve discrepancies between Engineering and Procurement
Assist in supplier audits and qualification processes
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of product developments and technical trends
Prepare technical documentation and sourcing reports
Adhere strictly to the Code of Ethics
Duties & Responsibilities
Project-Based Sourcing
Lead technical sourcing within cross-functional project teams
Identify and qualify suppliers for project components
Maintain a detailed database of project information
Technical Evaluation & Specification Compliance
Review and interpret drawings, specs, and BOMs
Ensure all sourced parts meet engineering and mining standards
Maintain a database of specification information
Alternative Sourcing & Obsolescence Management
Identify obsolete or soon-to-be-obsolete parts
Source validated alternatives and maintain an approved alternatives database
Cross-Functional Alignment
Act as liaison between Procurement, Engineering, and Projects
Communicate sourcing risks, timelines, and mitigation plans
Supplier Technical Engagement
Conduct technical discussions with suppliers
Facilitate supplier visits and audits
Document engagements and progress reports
Cost & Lead Time Optimisation
Analyse cost-saving and lead-time reduction opportunities
Support should‑cost analysis during negotiations
Maintain detailed sourcing information
Documentation & Reporting
Ensure all technical sourcing documentation is complete
Provide regular updates to the Procurement Officer
Record cost savings and cost avoidances monthly
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure compliance with industry safety and regulatory standards
Identify technical risks and support mitigation strategies
Supplier Development
Conduct supplier evaluations
Initiate CARs for underperforming suppliers
Support onboarding of new suppliers
Ensure supplier scorecards are completed
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