Technical buyer
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Technical procurement roles open right now
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How applying as a technical buyer at xentys works
You are not applying into a black hole. This is what happens after you respond — and what you can expect from us.
You respond or send your CV
Respond to one of the vacancies above, or send an open application. Make sure your CV shows your relevant experience in the technical world.
You talk to a recruiter
One of our recruitment specialists will give you a call. They would like to talk with you to get a better picture of who you are and what you are looking for.
We introduce you
Is the assignment a good fit? Then we introduce you to the client — never without your yes first.
Interviews and terms
We support you through the conversations about terms and conditions, right up to a smooth start.
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Technical buyer vacancies
These roles occur mainly in industry, but also in offshore and construction. What stands out is how much the required technical background and knowledge can vary. Some companies are happy with a colleague who has buying experience at a manufacturing company, while others ask for someone with a technical college background. That last group is, incidentally, very scarce in the Netherlands.
Working as a technical buyer
As a technical buyer you play an important role in purchasing mainly technical products and services — for the latter, think of outsourcing metalworking, or outsourcing the complete production of a machine.
Supply market research, market analysis and insight into the whole supply chain, from raw material onwards, and into the cost drivers, are important parts of your work.
Education and career
Where does a technical buyer work?
Technical buyers normally work in purchasing departments and are responsible for analysing the supplier market. As a technical buyer you will usually end up at a large company in machine building, automotive or product development.
You will negotiate favourable terms for technical purchases such as machines or installations. You will also give internal feedback on product quality and requirements, and propose changes to increase efficiency and save costs.
Differences between a technical buyer and other types of buyers
Although all kinds of buyers purchase products and materials for a company, there are some important differences between them. A technical buyer has broad technical knowledge of the technologies and products the company’s production process needs. Other buyers often focus on other kinds of goods or services.
A tactical buyer, for example, thinks more in terms of the customer’s needs. Technical buyers also often deal with stricter quality requirements and safety regulations, which can make the role even more challenging.
Main tasks and responsibilities
Broad knowledge of and affinity with engineering are two factors that contribute to your performance as a technical buyer. That broad knowledge mainly needs to cover the technologies and products the company needs for production. The main tasks are finding and contacting suppliers, managing prices and new contracts. Ordering products, tracking deliveries and spotting ways to reduce costs are important aspects too. As a buyer you also make sure the products delivered meet the quality requirements. The technical buyer’s role is important for a successful production process — and we understand better than anyone that it is essential for a company to invest in trained professionals for this role.
The skills needed to be an effective technical buyer
As mentioned earlier, the role of technical buyer requires excellent research and analytical skills. It also helps to have insight into technical components, commercial skills, problem-solving ability and communication skills. A good command of written and spoken English makes it easier to build new contacts, and at a large technical company it may well be a requirement. With the business objectives in view and good organisational skills to manage the purchasing process, you will get a long way as a technical buyer. The key skills are listed below.
- Excellent research and analytical skills: a technical buyer needs to know the market and be able to assess different suppliers, deciding which products and services suit the organisation best.
- Knowledge of technical specifications: as a technical buyer, understanding product specifications is essential when negotiating with suppliers on prices and contract terms. A passion for engineering certainly helps here.
- Strong negotiation and communication skills: technical buyers need to communicate effectively with suppliers, which can also help in finding new suppliers, for example by phone.
- Knowledge of market trends and suppliers: keeping up with trends in the sector, such as technological developments or changes in supplier costs, is essential for making well-founded purchasing decisions.
- Problem-solving ability: technical buyers need problem-solving skills to deal with difficult situations that can arise during negotiations or deliveries.
- The ability to make strategic decisions: a technical buyer must be able to make strategic decisions that increase efficiency and profitability, with the business objectives in mind.
Education and training
Technical buyers need education and training to succeed in their role. This can include knowledge of the market, technologies and products, and analytical and communication skills. A suitable technical education gives technical buyers an invaluable background. Courses in subjects such as contract management, negotiation and supply chain management can help develop the necessary competences. Investing in qualified technical buyers with relevant education and training benefits companies. When it comes to education and training, we know there is always room for personal development. We don’t judge anyone on their diploma, but on what they have to offer. Looking for a next step in your career? We would like to explore with you whether we can make it happen.
Work experience
Alongside education, work experience is essential for technical buyers. As a buyer you need practical knowledge and skills to understand technologies, products and materials better. It can improve your insight into the market, suppliers and safety regulations, and helps you solve problems faster. Looking for a new challenge in procurement? Have a look at our procurement vacancies for more information and to apply.
Tips for improving your skills as a technical buyer
We have a few more tips to help you position yourself well as a technical buyer. You can become more effective in your work by keeping up with the latest trends and technologies. You can sharpen your analytical skills by working a lot with data and finance. You could also take training and courses that help you develop skills in negotiation, contract management, supply chain management and communication. Working with internal stakeholders, such as technical teams and quality managers, helps you understand production challenges better. By continuing to develop your skills, as a technical buyer you contribute to your company’s success and stand out as a professional.
Permanent or temporary contract
At xentys you will find professional and management roles in procurement in industry, construction and offshore. Discover which role suits you.
Prefer to work on an interim or freelance basis? View interim and freelance →
Assignments of three to twelve months, often on an interim or freelance basis.
Management roles: team, strategy and supplier portfolio.
Long term: spend analysis, category plans and savings.
Supplier selection, contracts and category management.
Technical buyer
Buying engineering: engineering, machine building and projects.
Buyer
Operational purchasing: orders, lead times and day-to-day coordination.
Send an open application
We are always looking for experienced procurement professionals. Maybe not the vacancy that suits you today, but tomorrow it might be.
Rather talk it through first? Call +31 70 240 04 14.