Buyer III

Level 3 Direct Buyer (Contractor)

*** is seeking an experienced Level 3 Direct Buyer (Contractor) to support our procurement operations. This role will be responsible for managing the end-to-end procurement of direct materials and services, with specialized focus on standard Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) products, Discrete Electronic components, and aerospace-related goods and services. The ideal candidate will bring strong negotiation skills, supplier management experience, and the ability to navigate complex procurement requirements in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute the full procurement lifecycle for direct categories, including COTS products, Discrete Electronics, and aerospace materials/services
• Process purchase requisitions and convert them into purchase orders in compliance with company policies and procedures
• Source, evaluate, and select suppliers based on cost, quality, delivery, and service criteria
• Issue Requests for Quote (RFQs) and Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and conduct competitive bid analyses
• Continued supplier management post award to maintain supplier commitment schedules and On Time Delivery
• Manage procurement of standard commercial off-the-shelf products across multiple categories
• Identify opportunities for catalog buying and standardization to drive efficiency
• Maintain relationships with COTS distributors and manufacturers
• Support procurement of aerospace-related materials, components, and services
• Navigate specialized requirements including quality certifications, traceability, and compliance standards relevant to aerospace applications
• Coordinate with engineering and quality teams on technical and compliance specifications
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliable supply and competitive pricing
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions to achieve cost savings and value
• Resolve supplier issues including quality concerns, delivery delays, and invoice discrepancies
• Partner with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and ensure timely fulfillment
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, contractual requirements, and applicable regulations
• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation
• Support audit activities and reporting requirements

Skills

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of procurement/purchasing experience, preferably in an direct buying capacity
• Demonstrated experience procuring COTS products and electrontronics hardware
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
• Proficiency with ERP/procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Coupa)
• Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with aerospace quality standards and procurement compliance requirements
• Understanding of the Coupa and Costpoint ERP systems
• Professional certification (e.g., CPM, CPSM, or equivalent)
• Experience with strategic sourcing and category management