Scrap Metal Buyer / Office Reception - Nelson
Scrap Metal Buyer / Office Reception
Join our dynamic metal recycling team in a dual role that combines hands-on purchasing with front-desk professionalism. You’ll be responsible for assessing and purchasing scrap metal from suppliers and walk-in customers, while also managing reception duties such as greeting visitors, answering calls, and handling general office administration.This role suits someone organized, personable, and confident with both people and numbers.
As our Scrap Metal Buyer, you will play a pivotal role in sourcing, negotiating, and managing the logistics for a diverse array of scrap metals across the Nelson region.
Your primary responsibilities include:
Answer incoming phone calls and provide professional, helpful support to customers
Schedule scrap metal pickups and coordinate with drivers for efficient routing
Process customer payments accurately and maintain transaction records
Maintain a clean and organized front office environment
Assist with general administrative tasks as needed
Weighing, sorting and purchase of customer items
Processing of items when required
General yard tasks with the team such as sweeping etc., to maintain a tidy yard and safe yard
Purchasing ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals from businesses, contractors and individuals
Assessing, grading and weighing scrap metals to NMI 1991 LTD standards, ensuring accuracy and compliance
Quality Control and Assessment: Inspecting acquired materials for quality (grading, contamination, appropriateness) and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. This requires proficiency in material identification, use of certified weighing equipment, and keen attention to details.
Compliance and Record-Keeping: Ensuring all purchases adhere to the Secondhand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act and associated regulations, including complete and accurate records of transactions, identity verification, and proper reporting.
Demonstrated experience: At least 2-3 years in scrap metal procurement, trading, or a related industrial buying role. (preferred but training can be given to the right applicant)
Legal certifications: Must hold (or be eligible to obtain) a Secondhand Dealer’s Certificate under the Secondhand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act
Building and maintaining strong supplier relationships to secure continuous, high-quality material flows.
Coordinating logistics for pickups, deliveries, and storage, collaborating closely with yard and operations teams.
Completing and maintaining accurate transaction records in line with the Secondhand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act.
Representing the company professionally in all supplier and community interactions, upholding our reputation for service and reliability.
Core Competencies:
Strong negotiation, analytical and relationship-building abilities.
Sound knowledge of metal identification, grading, and value assessment.
Proficient in logistical planning, inventory management, and basic IT systems.
Compliance-focused mindset, meticulous record-keeping habits.
Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills.
Qualifications and Skills
We are looking for a capable and motivated professional with:
Meticulous attention to detail and compliance, especially in record-keeping and regulatory areas.
Strong negotiation and relationship management skills, with a reputation for integrity and professionalism.
Knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, grading, valuation, and recycling processes. (Also willing to train the right applicant)
Full New Zealand Class 1 driver’s license; (Class 2 or forklift endorsement advantageous but no essential).
Eligibility to obtain or currently hold a Secondhand Dealer’s Certificate (assistance available for the right candidate).
Proven customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities.
Demonstrated experience in scrap metal procurement, commodity trading, or industrial buying (minimum 2 years preferred but no essential, we would be willing to train the right applicant).
[Desirable]
Existing relationships/network in Nelson or the wider region.
Experience with digital procurement/logistics platforms.
Relevant NZQA or health and safety certifications.
Application Instructions
If you are passionate about sourcing, negotiation, and sustainability – and ready to advance your career with a respected name in New Zealand recycling – we’d love to hear from you!
To apply, please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience to:
Email: nelsonmetals@outlook.comApplications close: 29th of August or beforehand if the right applicant is found.
All applications will be treated in confidence. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are happy to discuss any support you may need during the application process.