Purchasing VAVE & Cost Optimization Specialist

Ready to take on meaningful challenges and shape the next generation of mobility?

Joining OPmobility means stepping into a global group with a purpose to keep people and goods moving safely, smarter, and sustainably everywhere.

The role of Purchasing VAVE & Cost Optimization Specialistis based in our Exterior & Lighting Business Group in Cracow, Poland.

Responsibilities:

• Drive VAVE and cost optimization activities for purchased components.
• Analyze supplier cost structures based on built and validated should-cost models
• Identify savings opportunities related to materials, manufacturing processes, labor, cycle times and other cost drivers.
• Prepare and lead cost optimization workshops with suppliers.
• Support Commodity Buyers with fact-based cost analysis during supplier negotiations and debriefings.
• Coordinate cost optimization opportunities across Purchasing, Engineering, Operations and suppliers.
• Manage the VAVE / should-cost opportunity pipeline from identification through implementation.
• Track savings initiatives and report progress to Purchasing Management.

Requirements:

• Degree in Business, Purchasing, Industrial Management, Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Purchasing, VAVE, product costing, manufacturing or a comparable automotive environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supplier cost structures.
• Experience in should-costing, VA/VE or product cost analysis.
• Strong analytical and commercial mindset with the ability to challenge supplier costs.
• Confident communication and workshop facilitation skills.
• Fluent English; another European language is an advantage.
• Willingness to travel 30–50%, mainly within Western and Central Europe.

We offer:

• Competitive salary
• Employment Stability
• Private Life Insurance
• Healthcare (Luxmed)
• Other Social Services (Cafeteria system, e.g. Multisport card)
• Transport allowance
• Home office (2 days per week)
• Flexible working hours
• Company events

At OPmobility, people truly matter. We are committed to building inclusive teams, promoting diversity and equality, and ensuring that every application is considered fairly - because the future of mobility is built by diverse perspectives, bold ideas, and people who dare to move forward.

Innovation is therefore not a buzzword, but a natural part of everyday work. You’ll grow in an international environment where cutting-edge technologies, industrial excellence, and real-world impact come together to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s automotive industry.

Founded in 1946 by Pierre Burelle, OPmobility, known until 2024 as Plastic Omnium, has transformed itself into a player in sustainable and connected mobility. Today, OPmobility develops technological solutions across four areas of expertise: exterior and lighting systems, the integration of complex modules, technologies related to energy storage, hydrogen and electrification, and a division dedicated to the development of embedded software and digital solutions.

With €11.5 billion in revenue in 2025, 152 factories, 40 R&D centers, and nearly 38,100 employees across 28 countries, OPmobility combines global scale with local impact. All driven by a shared ambition to accelerate the automotive energy transition.