Strategic Aerospace Buyer & Negotiations Lead

We’re on a mission to make the skies safe and accessible for everyone. Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during standard flight operations, inclement weather, and emergencies. Our SkyOS solution, rigorously and relentlessly developed by skilled and dedicated Skyrysers, is the key to unlocking this unbounded future. Our technology, combined with our commitment to saving lives and our passion for aviation, will empower everyone to experience the joy and freedom of flight. BUYER - EL SEGUNDO, CA The Buyer will own the end-to-end procurement of aerospace parts, materials, and services, negotiating supplier agreements that deliver competitive pricing, favorable terms, and reliable performance. This individual contributor role manages meaningful spend categories and strategic supplier relationships while supporting day-to-day production needs. The ideal candidate is a results-driven negotiator with experience in aerospace or other highly regulated manufacturing environments, comfortable navigating FAR/DFARS/ITAR requirements. You will lead supplier negotiations, shape commercial strategy aligned with technical and program requirements, and partner across the organization to drive cost, quality, delivery, and risk outcomes.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and implement strategic procurement plans aligned with organizational objectives, driving measurable cost savings and total cost of ownership improvements through structured sourcing strategies. Lead negotiations on supplier agreements, including pricing, terms, SLAs, and risk provisions; develop negotiation strategies and contract structures informed by market analysis, cost driver evaluation, and supply-base capability assessments. Run end-to-end sourcing events (RFPs, RFIs, RFQs), including proposal solicitation, cost analysis, price justification, supplier evaluation, and award decisions across raw materials, indirect goods, services, tooling, and capital equipment. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and vendors, driving accountability and continuous improvement in cost, quality, delivery, and risk. Partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, quality, and program management to shape Statements of Work (SOWs) and contract terms that align commercial agreements with technical, quality, and delivery requirements. Proactively identify and address supply chain risks (e.g., notifying teams of long lead times) and support the product production line as needed. Maintain accurate records and documentation of all procurement-related activities, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., FAR/DFARS/ITAR, AS9100). Support the development of project plans, objectives, and scopes, communicating effectively with internal stakeholders. Additional responsibilities as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field. 5+ years of procurement, strategic sourcing, or buying experience within a highly technical environment, with a focus on contract negotiation and supplier management. Experience sourcing in aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments, with working knowledge of FAR/DFARS/ITAR and AS9100. Experience developing and managing RFPs, RFIs, and RFQs, including supplier evaluation and award decisions. Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle NetSuite preferred) and Microsoft Excel. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to partner effectively across engineering, operations, quality, and program management.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

7+ years of procurement or strategic sourcing experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing, with direct experience sourcing commodities such as machined parts, castings, forgings, composites, or electronics. Experience negotiating Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) and complex supplier contracts. Strong analytical skills across cost analysis, price justification, market research, and total cost of ownership evaluations. Understanding of the DoD and aerospace landscape. CPSM, CPSD, Lean Six Sigma, or equivalent certification. Demonstrated success leading cost-reduction initiatives with quantifiable savings, including build-to-print procurement and supplier qualification.

WHY SKYRYSE?

The opportunity to change the world through improving aviation safety and accessibility. Valuable stock option plan. Heavily subsidized medical, dental and vision plans. Full-time employees are eligible for 20 days of paid time off (PTO) and 5 sick days annually. PTO and sick days must be used in accordance with Company policy. A company with an ambitious vision, a dynamic work environment, and a team of smart, motivated, and fun to work-with colleagues.

WE WELCOME ALL

Skyryse is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

NO AGENCY CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED.

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