Buyer II

Buyer II - Defense & Advanced TechnologyOverview

We are seeking a mid-level Buyer II to support high-technology defense and advanced engineering programs. In this role, you will manage end-to-end procurement activities for complex hardware across programs such as aircraft carriers, satellites, semiconductors, and advanced electronics.

This is a hands-on role requiring strong knowledge of FAR/DFARS compliance, supplier management, and high-volume purchase order execution. You'll work in a collaborative team environment while independently managing a demanding procurement workload.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute full-cycle procurement: requisition validation, sourcing, negotiation, PO issuance, and delivery tracking

• Procure parts, materials, equipment, and services supporting contracts and internal programs

• Identify and develop qualified suppliers meeting cost, quality, and schedule requirements

• Lead competitive and sole-source procurements; prepare required documentation and justifications

• Analyze supplier quotes and proposals; perform cost and price analysis

• Negotiate pricing, terms, delivery schedules, and contractual requirements

• Manage high-volume workload (~100 active POs) simultaneously

• Monitor order status, expedite deliveries, and resolve supplier performance issues

• Ensure compliance with FAR, DFARS, and internal procurement policies

• Maintain accurate, audit-ready records in SAP or equivalent ERP systems

• Support supplier onboarding, qualification, and performance evaluation

• Serve as the primary procurement contact for assigned programs

• Collaborate cross-functionally with program management, engineering, and suppliers

• Mentor junior buyers and provide procurement guidance as needed

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience)

• 3-7 years of procurement/buyer experience, preferably in defense or high-tech environments

• Strong understanding of the full procurement lifecycle

• Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS regulations

• Experience managing high-volume purchase orders (50-100+)

• Proven ability to:

• Conduct supplier sourcing and evaluations

• Perform cost/price analysis

• Negotiate contracts and delivery terms

• Experience procuring hardware such as electronics, semiconductors, assemblies, and PWBs

• Proficiency with SAP or similar ERP systems

• Strong communication, organization, and stakeholder management skills

• Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced, team environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting DoD or government-funded programs

• Familiarity with defense supply base and compliance requirements

• Experience with supplier onboarding and qualification processes

• Ability to present procurement strategies and findings to stakeholders

• Strong attention to detail with an audit-ready mindset

Work Environment

• Fully onsite, collaborative team of ~10 buyers

• Fast-paced, high-visibility defense programs

• Occasional extended hours to meet deadlines

Why This Role

• Exposure to cutting-edge defense and aerospace programs

• Opportunity to manage complex procurements across multiple commodity types

• Collaborative team culture with strong peer support

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $46.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in San Diego,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 3, 2026.

About Aston Carter

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io (%View email address on click.appcast.io) for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.