Assistant operational buyer

With more than 130 colleagues worldwide, at Eternal Sun we create sunlight! We design and manufacture high-end solar simulators that are used in factories that manufacture solar panels. Our customers are the world's largest solar panel manufacturers and leading R&D laboratories that are rapidly bringing new technical innovations to market. We ensure that they can be confident in what they produce, the quality and precise output of their solar panels. We are precise, resourceful and persistent. Eternal Sun distinguishes itself through customer-driven innovation, from the outside rather than the other way around, enabling us to deliver customized solutions and follow market innovations faster than others.

As an assistant operational buyer, you will be part of the procurement team (4 people, in total) and report to our Procurement Manager.

The position is based at the head office in The Hague, where around 50 colleagues work. With occasional work in Leipzig.

The culture is open, honest, enthusiastic, and international. We are looking for someone who will be a good fit with our team. Potential candidates will be required to travel to Leipzig or occasionally to our (international) suppliers.

The ideal candidate for this position is accurate, commercially minded, highly communicative, and ready to take the next step in their career. As an assistant operational buyer, you will be the vital link between our internal departments and external (international) suppliers. In this role, you will support the main Buyer and learn the trade firsthand. Together, we will ensure that quality, price, and delivery times are perfectly balanced.

We are are looking for someone who appreciates a fast-growing environment and is not afraid to hop on the wagon with us for an interesting ride. Most importantly, someone who takes pride and satisfaction in making (end) customers very happy.

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-End Ordering & JIT Buying: Plan production orders, place and meticulously track operational orders in accordance with the above-mentioned production orders. You will manage Just-In-Time (JIT) buying aligned with our production planning and actively expedite orders to guarantee on-time delivery.

• Process Administration: Oversee total open orders and financial commitments in cooperation with the buyer and procurement manager, while maintaining absolute data accuracy across all internal systems and documentation.

• Supplier Relationship Management: Serve as the primary daily contact for our suppliers, fostering strong relationships and aligning with delivery timelines and stock management.

• Proactive Problem Solving: Swiftly identify and resolve discrepancies in delivery times or invoicing, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.

• Logistics Support: Assist with the dispatch coordination of our machinery and maintain an accurate, eagle-eye view of our current inventory.

What You Bring

• HBO level work and thinking skills

• A few years of experience or internship in a technical procurement environment is a distinct advantage.

• An accurate working style, the ability to foresee operational implications, and strong negotiation skills.

• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is an absolute must.

• Proficiency in German is highly preferred; knowledge of Dutch is also an asset.

• Knowledge of SAP is preferred.

• A proactive, results-oriented attitude, and a genuine team-player mentality.

What We Offer

• A young and vibrant organization that contributes to a cleaner future every day.

• An international working environment with colleagues from no fewer than 15 different nationalities.

• A competitive market-rate salary (based on a 40-hour week), depending on your experience.

• If we make a profit, you will receive an annual bonus.

• After a fixed-term contract, the intention to extend.

• A comprehensive onboarding program, working closely alongside experienced buyers.

• Excellent secondary benefits, including a pension scheme, travel allowance, and 25 days of holiday.

• Dedicated time and budget for your personal development and further training.

• An inspiring work international environment with great colleagues and shared team lunches.