We are an engineering and technical staffing agency recruiting a Buyer / Purchaser for a client of ours. Our client is a global leader in aerospace manufacturing automation, delivering cutting-edge solutions that revolutionize aircraft assembly. From robotic fastening and drilling systems to complete automated production lines, their technologies empower the world’s top aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to build aircraft with greater precision, speed, and consistency.
Their commitment to engineering excellence, global supply chain optimization, and smart manufacturing practices has made them an industry pioneer. With operations spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, they continue to shape the future of aerospace through innovation, quality, and performance.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly technical, fast-paced, and mission-critical team that supports large-scale aerospace production with a robust and agile procurement strategy.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
As a Senior Buyer / Purchaser, you will oversee complex procurement activities for specialized mechanical, electrical, and automation components used in the manufacturing of automated aircraft assembly systems. You’ll manage supplier relationships, drive cost savings initiatives, and ensure the timely delivery of critical parts and services to support high-precision manufacturing schedules.
Key responsibilities include:
- Source, negotiate, and procure electromechanical parts, custom machined components, actuators, pneumatic tools, robotics parts, and automation controls
- Manage strategic sourcing for build-to-print assemblies and engineered-to-order (ETO) products
- Interpret and evaluate technical drawings, BOMs, and spec sheets to ensure accurate supplier quoting and fulfillment
- Develop and manage relationships with domestic and international suppliers to maintain quality, cost, and lead-time targets
- Monitor supplier performance and drive supplier scorecard metrics (on-time delivery, quality, responsiveness)
- Issue RFQs/RFPs, analyze bids, and award purchase orders in compliance with project budgets and delivery schedules
- Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to resolve part discrepancies or non-conformance issues
- Maintain ERP/MRP systems for accurate part numbers, pricing, lead times, and delivery statuses
- Support compliance with ITAR, AS9100, and other aerospace procurement regulations and quality standards
- Continuously seek and implement cost reduction, inventory optimization, and supply chain risk mitigation strategies
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or related field (required)
- Certifications such as CPIM, CSCP, or CPSM (preferred)
- Equivalent technical training combined with hands-on experience may be considered
Required Skills and Experience
- 7+ years of purchasing or supply chain experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing
- Strong understanding of aerospace-grade components, machine tools, automation systems, and robotics
- Proficient in reading engineering drawings and understanding GD&T, materials specifications, and tight tolerance requirements
- Experience working with AS9100-certified suppliers, ITAR compliance, and export control documentation
- Proficient with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, JobBOSS, or Infor) for managing orders and inventory
- Skilled in vendor negotiation, contract review, and cost/benefit analysis for complex part acquisitions
- Familiarity with supply chain risk management, including dual sourcing, lead time forecasting, and contingency planning
- Detail-oriented with strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally with engineers, planners, production teams, and executives
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience supporting large capital equipment or automated machinery builds
- Experience with long-lead items, custom fabrication, and tight-turn prototyping procurement
- Working knowledge of LEAN Manufacturing, Kanban systems, and Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory models
- Familiarity with PPAP, FAI, COC/COA, and supplier root cause investigations (8D, CAPA)
- Experience in global sourcing, freight logistics, and import/export documentation
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, SharePoint, and BI reporting tools for spend analysis and KPI dashboards
