Buyer

Job Posting Organization:
The ITER Organization (IO) is a pioneering international research and engineering project aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of nuclear fusion as a large-scale and carbon-free source of energy. Established to advance the understanding of fusion energy, the organization operates in a multi-cultural environment and encourages diversity among its workforce. The ITER project is a collaborative effort involving multiple countries, and the organization is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that respects and values diverse backgrounds. The IO believes that a diverse workforce is essential for addressing the complex challenges associated with fusion energy research and development. The organization emphasizes its CARE values: Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence, which guide its operations and interactions.

Job Overview:
The Buyer position at the ITER Organization is a critical role within the Administration Department, specifically in the Procurement Division. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the procurement process for contracts, which includes initiating and handling tender processes, negotiating with suppliers, and placing purchase orders and contracts to align with the procurement plans. The Buyer will work closely with Technical Departments to ensure that procurement activities are planned efficiently and that the best strategies are recommended for meeting project schedules and achieving optimal value for the organization. This role is essential in supporting the ITER mission to develop sustainable fusion energy, and the Buyer will play a key part in ensuring that procurement procedures are implemented smoothly and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Buyer include managing the entire procurement process for contracts within their scope of work, from the initial expression of needs to the preparation of tender documents, finalization of contracts, and closure. The Buyer will review and advise on technical specifications to ensure alignment with procurement needs and expected outcomes. Collaboration with procurement initiators is crucial to ensure compliance with procurement regulations. Additionally, the Buyer will manage Evaluation Committees, chairing them when appropriate for non-complex procurements, and organizing the assessment of tenders while providing guidance to committee members. The Buyer will also support Responsible Officers in managing contracts post-signature, act as an interface with tenderers for clarifications and changes, and assist in developing annual and multi-year procurement plans. Training newcomers on procurement procedures and identifying continuous improvement opportunities in procurement processes are also part of the role. The Buyer will be responsible for preparing and presenting status and progress reports for management, and may be required to undertake additional duties as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications for the Buyer position include comprehensive experience in procurement activities and contract management. Candidates should possess strong skills in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and ensuring compliance with procurement policies and regulations. Experience in contract administration, including developing and managing commercial terms and conditions, is also required. The ability to negotiate effectively and communicate clearly is essential, as is the capacity to write and review technical documents related to tenders and contracts. A good knowledge of SAP is considered an advantage but is not mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Procurement, Business Administration, or a related discipline. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Buyer has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform effectively in the role and to understand the complexities of procurement processes within the context of the ITER project.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a comprehensive level of experience as a buyer, specifically in managing procurement activities and contract portfolios. This experience should encompass a thorough understanding of procurement processes, strategic sourcing, and contract negotiation, as well as the ability to ensure compliance with established procurement policies and regulations. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record in contract administration and negotiation, showcasing their ability to manage contracts effectively throughout their lifecycle.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. This requirement ensures that the Buyer can effectively communicate and collaborate within the diverse, multi-national environment of the ITER Organization. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not explicitly required for this role.

Additional Notes:
The Buyer position offers an initial employment contract of up to five years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The job grade for this position begins at G4, with the final grade subject to the decision of the IO Director General. The selection process aims to fill the current vacancy while also establishing a reserve list of candidates for future positions. The reserve list will remain valid for two years, with the potential for extension at the discretion of the Director-General. The ITER Organization is committed to providing a fair and equitable work environment, including competitive compensation and benefits, and actively encourages applications from under-represented nations and women candidates.