Operations Assistant

Company Overview:High Performance Polymer (HPP) is a leader in the design, manufacturing, and supply of standardised and bespoke polymer components, serving a wide range of high-profile clients across science, engineering and technology industries. Our innovative product offerings include component supply, precision machining, injection moulding, and tailored design services. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our team and be part of this exciting journey.Role OverviewWe are seeking an operations assistant who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is eager to contribute across multiple areas of the business. The successful candidate will play a vital role in customer relations, streamlining day-to-day operations, supporting process improvements, and Sales based responsibilities. This position is ideal for someone who is organised, enthusiastic, and ready to take initiative on a wide range of tasks, from order processing to customer service, while helping to drive innovation across the business.This is a full-time role (40 hours per week) based in Milton Park / Abingdon.Salary Circa £26-£29k per annum subject to experience.Ideal Candidate:We are looking for an individual who not only meets the role requirements but also brings energy, curiosity, and a passion for innovation. The ideal candidate will be someone who is:Enthusiastic and flexible: Has a positive attitude and is happy to move between a variety of tasks, embracing new challenges with a willingness to learn.Organised and multi-tasking: Demonstrates excellent organisational skills and can manage multiple responsibilities at once, without sacrificing attention to detail.Innovative thinker: Brings fresh ideas and a desire to contribute to process improvements and operational efficiency.Team player: Enjoys working collaboratively and contributing to a positive team environment.Key Responsibilities:Sales/Order processing: Handle customer orders from initiation through to delivery, ensuring timely and accurate processing.Inventory management: Assist in managing and tracking stock levels of materials and finished products, ensuring timely replenishment and maintaining accurate records.Supplier relations / purchasing: Communicate with suppliers to place purchase orders, follow up on deliveries, and maintain healthy supplier relationships.General administration: Perform a variety of administrative tasks to support operational efficiency, including documentation, scheduling, and data entry.Customer service: Respond to customer inquiries, providing information, resolving issues, and ensuring a smooth experience from order to delivery.Web content / online product management: Assist in maintaining and updating the company’s online presence, ensuring accurate and informative content for product listings.Mini projects: Take on special projects aimed at improving business operations, whether it’s optimising workflows, reducing lead times, or enhancing customer service processes.Role Requirements:Minimum education: GCSE standard or equivalent.Technical skills: Proficiency in office-based applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.Computer competence: Highly competent in general computer use.Interest in science/engineering: A genuine interest in engineering or scientific industries is preferred.Time management: Ability to prioritise workloads effectively and meet deadlines.Driving license: Full UK driver’s license preferred (not essential).Desirable Skills & Experience:Prior Experience in a sales based role.Prior experience in an engineering or manufacturing environment.An understanding of engineering and/or scientific industries.Analytical and problem-solving skills.Initiative and the ability to take ownership of tasks.Experience with web content management or product listings (not essential but advantageous).Benefits:Annual leave: 20 days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays + Birthday.Christmas shut down: 5 additional working days off during the holiday season.Travel & accessibility: Free bus pass, on-site parking with electric vehicle charging, comprehensive cycle lanes.Facilities: On-site café, free tea and coffee, changing rooms with lockers and showers as well as a nursery on the park.Access:· Free buses to the business park from the surrounding area· Train via Didcot Parkway· Road via nearby A34· Comprehensive cycle lanesJob Types: Full-time, PermanentPay: £26,000.00-£29,000.00 per yearBenefits:CaféCompany pensionFree parkingOn-site parkingTransport linksJob Types: Full-time, Permanent