Reverse Value Chain & Kitting Operation Lead (m/w/d)

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. 

What We Offer

Salary:

Location:

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more. 

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits. 

Reverse Value Chain & Kitting Operation Lead

Role Overview

We are seeking a dynamic Reverse Value Chain (RVC) & Kitting Operations Lead to oversee and optimise our reverse logistics and kitting operations across multiple locations. This role requires strong logistics expertise, operational leadership, and a passion for driving performance and continuous improvement.

You will play a key role in managing outsourced logistics partners, ensuring operational excellence, and strengthening collaboration across internal and external stakeholders.

This role is full-time, on-site, based in our Neu-Isenburg site in Germany (south of Frankfurt am Main and about 9 km east of Frankfurt Airport.)

Key Responsibilities

Operations Leadership

• Lead and support outsourced logistics teams across Neu-Isenburg (ERPC) and Israel (IRPC)
• Monitor and drive performance against internal KPIs and service metrics
• Ensure alignment between logistics providers and internal teams

Process & Performance Optimization

• Ensure adherence to established business processes and operational standards
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance service levels and reduce costs
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in partnership with stakeholders

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with quality standards, QMS procedures, and work instructions
• Participate in audits and support data/reporting requirements
• Verify accuracy and compliance of import/export documentation, including:
  • Export declarations
  • Commercial invoices
  • Packing lists

Inventory Management

• Oversee inventory-related activities, including:
  • MRB (Material Review Board) processes
  • Cycle counts
  • Inventory reporting
• Ensure inventory accuracy and compliance across operations

Stakeholder Management

• Build strong relationships with outsourced logistics providers and internal teams
• Effectively communicate complex information across cross-functional stakeholders

What We’re Looking For

Experience & Skills

• Solid background in logistics and supply chain operations
• Strong expertise in Reverse Value Chain (RVC) and kitting processes
• Experience managing outsourced/third-party logistics providers
• Familiarity with import/export compliance and documentation
• Ability to analyse data and translate insights into actionable improvements

Language Skills

• Strong communication skills in English and German (written and verbal)

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide formal and informal guidance to team members and partners
• Lead through influence in a cross-functional, matrix environment
• Demonstrate sound judgment in problem-solving and decision-making

Working Environment

This role may involve:

• Physical activities such as standing, walking, lifting, and working in varied warehouse conditions
• Exposure to operational environments with varying noise levels
• Occasional international travel

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to lead and shape critical global logistics operations
• Work in a collaborative, international environment
• Drive meaningful improvements that impact service, cost, and efficiency

Additional Information

Time Type:

Employee Type:

Travel:

Relocation Eligible:

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.