81,900 euros – that’s the median annual salary according to the new BME Salary Report in Germany. This base salary is considered solid – particularly in the automotive industry, where purchasers deal with complex components such as castings and tooling.
- 05/23/2025
- Report
- Markets & Industries
81,900 euros – but at what cost?
Procurement professionals manage millions – especially when sourcing aluminium, zinc or magnesium cast components for the automotive sector. But how well are they themselves compensated? The latest salary report from BME (the German Association for Materials Management, Purchasing and Logistics) presents clear figures – and some uncomfortable truths – about pay in technical purchasing across industries such as automotive, aerospace, mechanical engineering, chemicals and medical technology.
“Behind the numbers are more than just benchmarks for high earners. The study also holds up a mirror to the industry – highlighting pressure, inequality and a lack of long-term prospects,” explains Manuel Steckermayr, Head of BME JobSource.
Overstretched – yet still content?
Those responsible for sourcing aluminium, zinc or magnesium castings, assemblies or tools for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers handle large budgets – and this is reflected in their earnings. According to the report, buyers working in technically demanding, strategic roles rank among the highest earners.
Although the study doesn’t focus exclusively on the casting sector, it offers relevant insights from adjacent industries such as automotive, mechanical engineering and metal processing – all of which heavily rely on cast components. But this level of responsibility comes at a cost: many buyers face increasing stress and limited career progression.
“Procurement in the casting environment now demands more than ever: technical know-how, systems competence and strategic thinking. Our report clearly shows how these skills influence salary – and where employers need to do more,” says Mireille Bart, Project Manager at KOINNO and BME JobSource.
Key insights from the BME Salary Report:
High earners: Buyers working for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers are frequently in the top third of the pay scale.
- Technical skills matter: Proficiency in SAP, project management tools and English significantly boosts earning potential.
- Frequent job moves: One in three respondents is considering a job change – despite reporting high satisfaction levels.
- Persistent gender pay gap: On average, women earn 25 percent less than men – even in highly skilled technical roles.
Buyers who procure casting components, structural parts or complex systems for e-mobility are making strategic decisions with far-reaching consequences. It’s therefore all the more important to have an accurate sense of one’s own market value. The BME Salary Report, with data from casting-related industries, provides a solid foundation – revealing which factors really drive salaries, where the most attractive sectors lie, and which skills will help buyers secure their future.
Download the full report* free of charge today.
*Note: The report is currently only available in German.
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