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Strategic Buyer (m/w/d) - for semiconductor industry

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Job ID: R2517682
Date posted: 10/14/2025
Location: Heimstetten, Germany
Category: Materials

Role Overview:
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Strategic Buyer – Mechanical Components & Assemblies to manage the procurement of high-precision mechanical components and assemblies for both R&D projects and industrialization. This role plays a critical part in building a resilient supply chain and ensuring supplier readiness for high-volume manufacturing (HVM).

Key responsibilities:

Manage series and project procurement of mechanical parts with complex surface finishing requirements
Secure holistic Supply Chain readiness for HVM by developing a robust and resilient supply chain ecosystem during the R&D and NPI phases of product development
Play a pivotal role in key SCM KPI deliverables, including RFQ-to-Procure-to-Pay cycle management, On-Time Delivery (OTD) performance, and supply chain financial management (costing/pricing)
Support strategic supplier management: identifying new suppliers, qualifying, monitoring, evaluating, and reporting key performance indicators
Take full commercial responsibility for selected suppliers after onboarding
Negotiate framework agreements for serial deliveries and new projects in coordination with purchasing interfaces
Develop and implement process improvements and innovative supply chain strategies
Operate as a key supplier liaison, ensuring effective Supplier Relationship Management and acting as the first level of escalation
Assist with order processing and serve as a point of contact for operational purchasing
Collaborate with planning, logistics, and production teams to optimize operational resources

Qualifications & Experience:

Degree in Industrial Engineering or a technical qualification with additional training; experience in mechanical engineering is preferred
5+ years’ experience in strategic and operational purchasing of single parts, small series, and project-based procurement
Solid technical understanding of products and manufacturing processes; ideally with experience in optimizing procurement workflows
Fluent in German and English, both written and spoken
Proficient in working with ERP systems
Solution-oriented and independent working style
Enjoys negotiating and communicates openly and purposefully
Efficient work habits and strong self-organization skills
Willingness to travel occasionally

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's Degree

Skills

Certifications:

Languages:

Years of Experience:

2 - 4 Years

Work Experience:

Additional Information

Shift:

ICT Overtime Eligible (Germany)

Travel:

Yes, 10% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.