Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing Specialist

Midland, Texas, United States

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Purchasing Specialist to support procurement and sourcing activities across a global supplier base. This role is responsible for ensuring the timely acquisition of quality materials and components while maintaining strong supplier relationships and driving cost efficiencies. The ideal candidate will play a key role in supporting supply continuity, operational efficiency, and strategic sourcing initiatives within a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Procure direct materials, components, and services from domestic and international suppliers
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules to achieve cost savings and favorable agreements
• Create, manage, and track purchase orders within an ERP system, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Monitor supplier performance, delivery timelines, and material availability to ensure continuity of supply
• Maintain accurate procurement data, supplier records, and delivery forecasts within internal systems
• Resolve procurement, receiving, and accounts payable discrepancies in collaboration with internal teams and suppliers
• Manage supplier lead times and implement improvements to optimize delivery performance
• Prepare and communicate procurement status reports, supplier metrics, and delivery updates to stakeholders
• Support inventory management efforts, including monitoring stock levels and assisting with forecasting activities
• Maintain strong working relationships with suppliers, vendors, and internal cross-functional teams
• Contribute to sourcing strategies, cost reduction initiatives, and special procurement projects
• Support supplier negotiations and contract management activities as needed
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to procurement processes and supplier management
• Travel occasionally to supplier sites or industry events, as required
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, Engineering, or a related field

Experience:

• A minimum of 3+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, purchasing, or supply chain within manufacturing or a related industry
• Experience negotiating supplier agreements, pricing, and commercial terms
• Experience working with ERP systems, including purchasing modules
• Familiarity with sourcing materials, components, or assemblies in a production environment
• Experience managing supplier relationships and resolving supply chain issues
• Strong understanding of procurement processes, inventory management, and supply chain workflows

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in highly regulated or advanced manufacturing industries
• Familiarity with sourcing specialized or engineered materials and components
• Experience supporting global sourcing initiatives and working with international suppliers
• Knowledge of supplier quality standards, certifications, and compliance requirements
• Supply chain or procurement certifications (e.g., CPSM, APICS, CPM)
• Experience with ERP platforms such as NetSuite or similar systems

Soft Skills:

• Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while contributing to team objectives

Technology Stack:

• ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite or equivalent)
• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Procurement and supplier management tools
• Data analysis and reporting tools

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in a standard office and manufacturing environment
• Ability to sit and work on a computer for extended periods
• Ability to occasionally walk production floors and interact with operational teams
• Ability to travel occasionally, both domestically and internationally

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.