Operational Buyer

ZEISS is technology and innovation.

Founded in Germany in 1846, ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the optics and optoelectronics industries across 50 countries.

As a company wholly owned by a foundation, ZEISS is committed to responsibility in all its activities. As a pioneer in scientific optics, our employees across the globe continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, ZEISS creates value for its customers and helps shape new ways of seeing the world.

We're looking for an Operational Buyer to join us in Lisbon, Portugal.

ZEISS Shared Production Unit (SPU) Portugal plays a key role in supporting our global operations by delivering high-quality business services across a range of functions. Our Procurement team works collaboratively with colleagues and suppliers around the world to ensure the efficient sourcing of goods and services that enable our business to operate successfully.

Your Role

As an Operational Buyer, you will be responsible for ensuring the timely and efficient procurement of goods and services in line with business requirements, quality standards, and procurement guidelines.

Working closely with Strategic and Tactical Procurement teams, as well as internal stakeholders and suppliers, you will support the end-to-end purchasing process while ensuring compliance with ZEISS procurement policies and contributing to the continuous improvement of procurement operations.

The role of Operational Buyer will involve:

• Processing purchase requisitions independently within assigned supplier portfolios and in accordance with ZEISS procurement processes and corporate guidelines.
• Creating, maintaining, and monitoring purchase orders within the ERP system.
• Communicating with suppliers regarding order confirmations, delivery schedules, and order-related queries.
• Monitoring delivery dates and proactively following up on delayed deliveries.
• Resolving discrepancies relating to pricing, quantities, and delivery dates in collaboration with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Conducting price comparisons, obtaining quotations, and supporting price negotiations within defined approval limits.
• Supporting supplier selection and evaluation in collaboration with Tactical Procurement.
• Preparing and managing procurement documentation, including non-disclosure agreements and framework agreements.
• Maintaining procurement master data, supplier information, pricing, and delivery records within SAP and other procurement systems.
• Supporting invoice reconciliation in collaboration with the Accounts Payable team.
• Assisting with complaint resolution, returns, tenders, and procurement-related administrative activities.
• Supporting the maintenance of supplier portals and procurement platforms.
• Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance procurement efficiency and service delivery.

Your Experience

Essential

• Completed vocational or commercial qualification in Purchasing, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or a related discipline.
• Experience working with ERP and procurement systems.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy.
• A good command of English (B2).

It would be desirable if you had:

• Previous experience in an operational purchasing or procurement environment.
• Experience working with SAP or similar ERP systems.
• Experience supporting supplier management and procurement process improvements.

Your Benefits

If you join ZEISS, you will have access to a range of benefits, including:

• The opportunity to work for a global leader in optics and innovation.
• A collaborative and international working environment.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Exposure to global procurement processes and cross-functional collaboration.
• Career development opportunities within an international organisation.

Role Details

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

Working Model: Hybrid – 2 days per week in the Lisbon office.

Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity is a core part of ZEISS. We welcome applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, philosophy of life, disability, age, sexual orientation, or identity.

Apply now

Apply now to take the next step in joining ZEISS, where you can push technological boundaries, shape markets, and contribute to the advancement of society.

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:

Sayem Chowdhury