Category Specialist – Automotive Semiconductors (m/f/d)

A Career at HARMAN

As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do every day.

Introduction: A Career at HARMAN Automotive

We’re a global, multi-disciplinary team that’s putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.

• Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience

• Combine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence

• Advance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoyment

About the Role

As a Category Specialist – Automotive Semiconductors, you will manage global supplier relationships, drive cost optimization, and align sourcing strategies with HARMAN’s product and technology roadmaps.

This position is ideal for professionals with at least 3 years of experience in semiconductor procurement, strategic sourcing, and supplier management within the automotive or electronics industry.

What You Will Do

•  Support the development of the global sourcing strategy for dedicated semiconductor categories. 
• Lead supplier negotiations, contract management, and long-term capacity planning.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing to align sourcing with product roadmaps
• Collaborate with R&D and product teams to influence early supplier engagement and design-to-cost strategies
• Manage RFx processes and supplier performance reviews (QBRs)
• Leverage digital procurement tools and analytics to enhance sourcing efficiency and transparency
• Contribute to cross-category initiatives and support senior category leaders as needed
• Participate in mentoring and knowledge-sharing within the procurement team

What You Need to Be Successful

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in procurement, with a focus on electronics or semiconductor sourcing
• Proven success in supplier negotiations, cost management, and sourcing strategy execution
• Strong understanding of semiconductor supply chains, pricing models, and manufacturing cost structures
• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills

Bonus Points if You Have

• Experience in an automotive Tier 1 or OEM environment
• Familiarity with infotainment systems, ADAS, or vehicle connectivity platforms
• Knowledge of semiconductor lifecycle management and obsolescence planning

What Makes You Eligible

• Willingness to travel up to 30% (domestic and international)

What We Offer:

• HARMAN offers a diverse and inclusive work environment that fosters and encourages career development opportunities, professional training and competitive market base compensation
• You will also receive top-notch employee discounts on Harman’s Consumer Audio (JBL, AKG, HARMAN Kardon) and Samsung products
• Flexible work schedule with a culture encouraging work life integration and collaboration in a global friendly working atmosphere and good work-life-balance
• Attractive salary package based on the Metall & Elektro Tarif Baden Wurttemberg and an Employer contribution towards a company pension plan
• Professional development opportunities through HARMAN University’s business and leadership academies which also includes extensive technical trainings
• Internal talent management leadership acceleration programs
• “Be Brilliant” employee recognition and rewards program

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HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.