Become Project Buyer External Operations at AAE in Helmond and help bring high-tech innovations to the world! Apply now.

Are you a tactical procurement expert ready to make a real impact in a high-tech world driven by innovation and precision? This is your opportunity. At AAE — an innovative family-owned company based in Helmond — you will contribute to groundbreaking technologies that make the world a better place. As Project Buyer External Operations, you will play a vital role in our complex high-tech module manufacturing, where strategic purchasing, long-term supplier relationships, and reliable deliveries are key to success.

Pushing technical boundaries

At AAE, we create technology that truly matters. From precision components for the medical industry to advanced modules for the semiconductor sector, our machines — and your procurement expertise — help enable better healthcare, cleaner mobility, and smarter learning solutions.

We achieve this with a wide range of high-tech modules, systems, and complete automation solutions, producing up to 350 million products annually. The diversity of our technologies, customers, and sectors — both national and international — ensures that your role will be anything but ordinary. Together, we are shaping the future of our fast-growing high-tech family business in Helmond and, more recently, in North America.

What will your role be?

We are eager to welcome you as our new Project Buyer External Operations. In this role, you will coordinate all procurement activities related to the production processes outsourced within our supply chain, particularly for UCPM. You will take ownership of the entire procurement process: from supplier selection and contract negotiations to quality assurance. Supplier relationship management and continuous improvement of our supply chain will also be central to your mission.

Wondering what UCPM stands for? It refers to Ultra Conditioned Precision Modules, one of our three Business Lines. Within UCPM, we develop high-end, ultra-precise OEM modules that must perform under extreme conditions — for leading companies in the high-tech industry. Our clients move fast, and so do we.

You will manage procurement of production processes carried out by external partners. This role is broad, dynamic, and impactful.

Here’s what you’ll do:

• Lead the entire request-for-quotation process: define specifications, request and assess quotations, visit suppliers, negotiate terms, and manage contracts.
• Safeguard the quality of externally sourced processes in close cooperation with our quality department, ensuring compliance with AAE’s high standards.
• Monitor suppliers on Quality, Delivery, and Cost (QDC performance), maintain strong and long-term relationships — primarily with European suppliers — and align their performance with our growth ambitions.
• Collaborate intensively in multidisciplinary teams including (NPI) engineers, logistics engineers, and project managers to ensure that your procurement strategy supports both technical and commercial goals.

At AAE, we believe in doing things the right way — and doing them together. You will be part of a team of 25 buyers, ranging from junior to highly experienced professionals. We thrive on growth, share plenty of laughter, and enjoy regular team events and activities outside of work.

Joy Notten, Strategic Buyer UCPM and your future colleague:

"There’s nothing more exciting than working on innovative projects at AAE. The constant challenges and the latest technologies make every day unique and inspiring. Our energetic and supportive team makes collaborating on diverse projects not only rewarding, but also truly enjoyable!"

Being part of something great

At AAE, we are proud of our machines, but even prouder of our people. With more than 550 colleagues, we work hard to make the world a better place. What sets us apart is our culture — celebrating successes together through Friday afternoon drinks, pub quizzes, team outings, summer BBQs, and legendary company parties. We also take on sporting challenges together, from running and padel to cycling up the Passo dello Stelvio. At AAE, you belong — not just for now, but for the long run.

You got what it takes

As a tactical buyer, you have a sharp eye for quality and a solid track record in procurement. You make confident decisions to steer projects in the right direction. Your analytical mindset and commercial awareness enable you to interpret complex data and make sound decisions. Excellent communication skills help you negotiate effectively and collaborate smoothly with both suppliers and internal stakeholders. You are organized, can manage multiple projects effortlessly, and know how to set the right priorities.

You are eager to elevate the supply chain together with your multidisciplinary team. Furthermore, you bring:

• A bachelor’s degree or higher.
• At least 5 years of experience as a technical/tactical buyer in the manufacturing industry — experience in a high-tech environment is a plus.
• Technical insight and affinity with production processes.
• Strong communication skills in both Dutch and English.
• Experience working with ERP systems.

Most importantly, you align with our company culture, defined by our core values: Ambitious, Can-do, Human, and Together.

Our offer for you

At AAE, we care deeply about your happiness at work. This is reflected in our wide range of training and development opportunities, and our comprehensive vitality program, promoting both physical and mental wellbeing. We are proud to be recognized as a World Class Workplace 2023-2024, a prestigious accolade awarded based on outstanding employee satisfaction.

As Project Buyer External Operations (based on a 40-hour workweek), you will enjoy:

• A gross monthly salary between €4,000 and €6,400 — with performance-based growth opportunities.
• An annual profit sharing bonus.
• 40 vacation days.
• Travel expense reimbursement.
• Access to the AAE Academy for continuous learning.

Let’s move the world happily forward

Are you ready to make a real difference? Apply now for the position of Project Buyer External Operations and start your journey towards a brighter future — for yourself and the world around you.