Buyer

Karman Space & Defense Procurement Manager

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies' core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Maritime Defense Systems business, which delivers integrated solutions with decades of proven performance across submarine, surface, and autonomous naval platforms supporting high-priority national defense programs. Our bow-to-stern capabilities include acoustic and sonar protection systems, propulsion systems, advanced composite structures, missile subsystems, canisters and launchers, and autonomous underwater vehicle subsystems. From concept through production, we combine engineering, materials expertise, specialized manufacturing, and large-scale testing to deliver mission-ready systems that reduce technical risk and support long-term operational performance.

In this role, you will manage procurement activities that directly support production for submarine and amphibious programs. You will source materials and services, develop competitive quotes for federal contracts, and collaborate cross-functionally to ensure purchasing decisions meet cost, quality, and delivery expectations. Your work will help ensure uninterrupted production flow and compliance with customer and contract requirements.

Responsibilities

• Sources, negotiates, and purchases materials, supplies, and services to meet production and operational needs.
• Builds and maintains supplier relationships to support quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitors inventory levels and coordinates purchasing activities to prevent production delays.
• Prepares and manages competitive quotes for federal contracts in partnership with internal teams.
• Analyzes costs, lead times, and supplier capabilities to inform accurate and competitive bids.
• Ensures compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) during sourcing and bidding activities.
• Evaluates vendor performance using quality, delivery, and cost metrics and conducts audits to confirm compliance.
• Addresses vendor issues to maintain schedule and quality expectations.
• Maintains accurate purchase order, quote, and contract records for regulatory and audit needs.
• Collaborates with finance, production, and engineering teams to support timely and cost-effective procurement decisions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of procurement experience, preferably in a federal contracting environment.
• Strong negotiation skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of federal contracting regulations, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
• Proficiency with procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is a plus.
• Knowledge of federal procurement processes and compliance standards.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under tight deadlines, and adapt to changing project needs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company-paid life and AD&D insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.