Junior Buyer

Job Description

Job Description

MSM Industries, LLC has been a trusted partner to the U.S. Navy and its prime contractors for over 20 years. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing business, we specialize in advanced material solutions for signature reduction, vibration and acoustic management, and environmental control. MSM also serves as a high-performance system integration and assembly provider for key customers. With in-house manufacturing and a track record for on-time, high-quality deliveries, MSM is known for innovation, reliability, and rapid response to complex program needs.

MSM is part of Canopy Aerospace & Defense, a platform built to accelerate the future of advanced materials for space, defense, and maritime systems. Canopy A&D delivers specialized materials and components that carry customers from concept through sustainment. Canopy A&D’s advanced signal attenuation technologies and production-scale manufacturing accelerate the fielding of platforms that are faster, cooler, and quieter. Our adaptive approach ensures solutions evolve at the pace of shifting challenges, keeping our customers ahead of the curve.

Role Overview

MSM Industries is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Junior Buyer to support procurement activities across our advanced manufacturing operations. This role will be responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing suppliers for aerospace-grade materials, components, and services in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

In addition to procurement responsibilities, this role will provide administrative support by serving as a professional first point of contact for the company. Responsibilities will include answering and directing incoming calls, greeting and assisting customers, visitors, and vendors, and ensuring a welcoming and professional front office experience. The individual in this role will represent MSM Industries with professionalism, strong communication skills, and a customer-focused mindset while balancing purchasing priorities with administrative support needs.

The ideal candidate thrives in ambiguity, operates with a high level of autonomy, and has experience working within aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing industries. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in support of business operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute spot buys and support procurement activities for production and operational needs.
• Purchase shop consumables and support day-to-day purchasing requirements.
• Create purchase orders (POs) and follow established procurement processes and procedures.
• Utilize ERP systems, including Epicor and ProShop, to manage purchasing activities, maintain records, and support operational requirements.
• Process and reconcile purchasing-related credit card transactions.
• Support program managers by placing and managing small, low-dollar purchase orders to meet program needs.
• Assist with supplier quotations, sourcing activities, and obtaining pricing and availability information.
• Support supplier sourcing efforts by identifying potential suppliers, gathering supplier information, and assisting with supplier evaluations.
• Maintain organized and accurate procurement records to support audit requirements and ensure proper documentation and traceability.
• Maintain accurate documentation and traceability for all purchased materials, components, and services.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure purchased materials meet required specifications, certifications, and quality standards.
• Place and manage purchase orders in alignment with production schedules, MRP requirements, and program milestones.
• Monitor purchase order status and supplier commitments to support on-time delivery of materials.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships with qualified suppliers.
• Identify, evaluate, and assist with onboarding new suppliers in compliance with aerospace and quality standards.
• Monitor supplier performance, including on-time delivery, quality, and cost metrics, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with resolving supplier-related issues, including shortages, nonconformances, and delivery delays.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with AS9100, ITAR, and applicable regulatory requirements.

Administrative & Front Desk Support Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact for visitors, customers, vendors, and employees by providing a professional and welcoming experience.
• Answer, screen, and direct incoming phone calls to the appropriate departments or individuals.
• Manage front desk activities, including greeting visitors and assisting with general inquiries.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality when interacting with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support general administrative tasks as needed to assist with daily business operations.
• Coordinate front office communications while balancing procurement priorities and business needs.
• Represent MSM Industries with a high level of professionalism and serve as a positive reflection of the company’s values.

Required Qualifications

• HS Diploma
• 2-5+ years of purchasing/buying experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing
• Familiarity with aerospace materials, machining, fabrication, and outside processing
• Experience working in an AS9100-regulated environment
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Epicor, or similar)

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field
• Experience with ITAR/EAR compliance and export-controlled environments
• Background supporting NPI or prototype-to-production transitions
• CPSM, CPIM, or related supply chain certification
• Experience in a startup or high-growth manufacturing environment
• Strong understanding of cost drivers in aerospace manufacturing

Additional Requirements

• Must have professional working proficiency reading, writing, and speaking English
• Ability to work in office, lab, and manufacturing environments with occasional exposure to noise, chemicals, dust, industrial equipment, and temperature variations
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer workstation
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for data entry, keyboarding, and mouse use
• Ability to view computer screens for prolonged periods
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via email
• Ability to use a computer to complete assignments 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Management may modify or assign additional duties as needed.

Job Details

Type: Full-Time, Non - Exempt

Schedule: Core business hours Mon - Fri (07:00 - 03:30 PM), may vary based on business need

Hourly Pay Range: $27.00 to $30.00

Base Location: Riverside, CA (100% Onsite)

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Total compensation will also include a comprehensive set of benefits including but not limited to: Company paid employee medical, dental and vision insurance. 401K company match (eligibility required), paid sick leave, paid vacation, paid holidays and discretionary bonuses.

Export Control Requirements

To conform to US Government export regulations, the applicant must be a (i) US Citizen, (ii) lawful permanent resident of the U.S. (aka green card holder), (iii) protected individual as defined by U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (iv) eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

MSM Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer, employment with MSM Industries 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.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.