Buyer III

Job Title

Vantage Systems, Inc. (Vantage), is a pioneering force in the realm of multi-disciplinary engineering services for spaceflight projects. Since our establishment in 1992, we have consistently delivered progressive solutions to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) space flight community earning recognition for our unwavering integrity and dedication to delivering top-tier solutions that align with the U.S. space program missions.

For over three decades, Vantage's commitment to quality service and innovation has driven our rapid growth. Fueled by a deep understanding of the ever-evolving U.S. space program, we continuously pioneer progressive solutions to address NASA's & DoD's pressing challenges. Our unwavering commitment to exceptional service is built upon a foundation of ethics, honesty, and a people-centric approach. Join us as we forge ahead, combining our expertise with NASA's legacy of excellence to shape the future of space exploration.

We are looking for highly qualified candidates for a potential upcoming contract positioned onsite at the Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) SSHINE contract.

Job Description

The Buyer is responsible for, at a senior level, procuring materials, equipment, supplies, and services to support Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) space technology programs under the SSHINE contract. This role focuses on procurement of space-rated hardware, specialized aerospace components, commercial and non-commercial space systems, and technical equipment for spacecraft ranging from CubeSats to ESPA-class satellites. The Buyer III manages the full procurement lifecycle including sourcing, bid management, contract administration, vendor relationships, and Government property management while ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) requirements and organizational policies.

The Buyer will support:

• Space hardware procurement: Source and procure space-rated/space-grade hardware, long-lead items, and specialized aerospace components for flight experiments and ground systems
• Government property management: Maintain inventory and management of Government-furnished property and contractor-acquired property in accordance with FAR requirements
• Procurement coordination: Coordinate all purchases with Government Technical Leads and obtain Contracting Officer approval for purchases exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold
• Vendor management: Develop and maintain relationships with aerospace vendors, space component suppliers, and commercial providers

This position requires understanding of aerospace procurement, experience with Government contracting processes, and the ability to work in Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) supporting innovative space technology experiments for the Department of Defense.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement Operations:

• Review and process purchase requisitions for accuracy, compliance, and completeness
• Procure materials, equipment, supplies, software, and services in a timely, cost-effective manner
• Manage purchase orders, delivery schedules, and change orders
• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation

Sourcing & Vendor Management:

• Identify, evaluate, and develop qualified suppliers
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships
• Monitor vendor performance for quality, cost, delivery, and compliance
• Develop sourcing strategies for critical and long-lead items

Bidding & Contract Administration:

• Prepare and issue RFPs, RFQs, and bid requests
• Analyze proposals and recommend best-value awards
• Administer supplier contracts and process modifications as needed

Cost Control & Process Improvement:

• Implement cost-effective purchasing strategies aligned with business goals
• Analyze spending trends and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Support budget planning and improve procurement workflows

Compliance & Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with company policies, legal requirements, and FAR/DFARS when applicable
• Support audits and maintain procurement transparency
• Track inventory, property, and required procurement reports

Logistics & Coordination:

• Coordinate shipping, receiving, and delivery of materials and equipment
• Partner with internal teams to support operational and program needs

Minimum Qualifications

• Education/ Years of Relevant Experience: 15+ years of experience with HS degree or 10+ years of experience with AA degree or 5+ years of experience with BS/BA degree
• Clearance: TS with eligibility for SCI Poly