Commodity Buyer, Launchers & Site Operations | 40 hours | Leiden/Oegstgeest area | Space industry | Procurement / Supply Chain | Start date: ASAP | Duration: to be discussed | Extension: possible | Hybrid work possible | Fixed-term contract for 1,600 hours

Applications may be submitted on an ongoing basis until the right candidate has been selected. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands
Start date: As soon as possible
Hours: 40 hours per week
Location: Leiden/Oegstgeest area (hybrid work possible)
Duration: To be discussed

Company description

Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands operates at the forefront of the international space industry. The organization develops and delivers advanced space technologies and products, including solar arrays, launcher structures, instruments, and optical communication systems.

From its state-of-the-art facilities in the Netherlands, a team of dedicated professionals works on the design, development, assembly, testing, and delivery of critical space solutions. These technologies contribute to essential applications such as satellite navigation, communication systems, climate research, and air quality monitoring.

The organization is part of the Airbus family and works closely with international partners and stakeholders in a highly innovative and collaborative environment.

About the role

Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands is seeking a Commodity Buyer for Launchers & Site Operations for its Procurement department. In this strategic procurement role, you will be responsible for the end-to-end sourcing and supplier management of launcher-related commodities such as fasteners, Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and other site-critical technical supplies.

You will ensure supply continuity, supplier performance, and technical compliance, while optimizing procurement processes and the overall value chain. The role combines strategic sourcing, stakeholder management, and operational coordination within a highly technical aerospace environment.

You will report directly to the Head of Procurement and work closely with Program Supply Managers, engineers, and supplier account teams.

Your role and responsibilities

As a Commodity Buyer for Launchers & Site Operations, you will:

• Define and implement sourcing strategies for fasteners, ground support equipment (GSE), and site operational supplies
• Lead bid, tender, and supplier selection processes for high-reliability suppliers
• Negotiate master service agreements and individual contracts
• Manage contract renewals, claims, and waivers in collaboration with Legal
• Lead the Supplier Account Team and monitor supplier performance
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks and develop strategic supplier partnerships
• Ensure supplier priority and continuity during periods of supply chain volatility
• Serve as the procurement liaison between Procurement and Launcher Program Management
• Provide reports on procurement status, costs, and supply risks
• Manage strategic stock levels to prevent production disruptions while optimizing inventory costs
• Support the operational continuity of the production site through effective procurement coordination
• Work closely with engineering teams on technical specifications and procurement requirements

Your profile

You have strong analytical skills, are commercially driven, and are comfortable working in a complex technical environment. You combine strong negotiation skills with a structured and proactive approach to your work.

You bring:

• HBO-level education (equivalent to a bachelor's degree)
• Relevant experience in strategic procurement, commodity purchasing, or supply chain management
• Experience in a technical, manufacturing, or aerospace environment is a strong plus
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills
• Analytical mindset with experience in cost optimization and supplier performance management
• Ability to work with technical specifications and engineering stakeholders
• A keen eye for detail and a strong sense of integrity and quality
• Experience with supplier management and contract management
• Excellent communication skills in English (required)
• Available for long-term rental.

What we offer

• A challenging procurement role within a leading international aerospace organization
• Opportunity to work on innovative space and launch vehicle programs
• A highly collaborative and international work environment
• Experience in strategic supplier and program management
• Hybrid work options
• Opportunity to contribute to critical space technologies and operations