Location: Greater LAX Area
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Arrangement: 100% Onsite
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Sourcing Buyer IV will manage complex manufacturing suppliers supporting aerospace and defense programs. This individual will be responsible for strategic sourcing, supplier performance, negotiations, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to support ongoing manufacturing requirements.
The position will focus on developing supply solutions that provide the best overall value while meeting key objectives for cost, quality, and on-time delivery. The ideal candidate will bring significant experience sourcing machined and fabricated components, along with knowledge of finishing processes and military/aerospace quality standards and specifications.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Source and purchase materials, supplies, and services while securing competitive pricing, quality, and commercial terms
- Identify and qualify suppliers, evaluate bids and proposals, and negotiate pricing, lead times, and purchasing terms
- Develop and execute comprehensive sourcing strategies in collaboration with internal teams
- Manage supplier performance with a strong focus on quality, cost, and on-time delivery
- Track purchasing activity and maintain accurate, current supplier information
- Partner with manufacturing, engineering, quality, and other internal teams to support production requirements
- Coordinate sourcing activities, approvals, and purchasing decisions with internal stakeholders and senior leadership
- Serve as a subject-matter resource for complex technical and commercial procurement matters
- Provide guidance and support to less-experienced buyers when needed
- May serve as a team lead for assigned projects or sourcing initiatives
- Maintain a strong commitment to the timely delivery of high-quality products
SKILLS / REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelors degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Logistics, or a related field required
- 7+ years of hands-on purchasing and sourcing experience involving machined and fabricated components
- Previous procurement experience within the aerospace or defense industry required
- Ability to read, understand, and interpret mechanical drawings
- Working knowledge of FAR and DFARS requirements
- Experience managing suppliers against established KPIs and performance expectations
- Strong negotiation and supplier-management capabilities
- Ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels, both internally and externally
- Established relationships within the manufacturing and supplier community
- Results-oriented with a demonstrated history of achieving business and procurement objectives
- Strategic mindset with the ability to develop creative solutions to complex sourcing and supply-chain challenges
- High level of personal and professional integrity
- Self-motivated, highly organized, and effective at developing professional relationships
- Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where quality and on-time delivery are critical
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
- Previous experience utilizing ERP systems required
- Strong mathematical, written, and verbal communication skills
- Fluent English communication skills
- Must be able to read, write, and speak English
- Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience managing suppliers qualified in Determinant Manufacturing is highly preferred, but not required
- SAP experience is a plus
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
Approximately 10% travel is required for this position.