Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Direct Buyer Specialist to support and enhance procurement operations in our Chula Vista, CA facility. In this role, you will manage supplier relationships, ensure timely material deliveries, and apply expert negotiation and cost analysis skills. Acting as a central liaison between production teams and suppliers, you will be responsible for driving cost efficiency, maintaining delivery assurance, and supporting our commitment to operational excellence.

This is a role ideal for a procurement professional with strong technical, analytical, and negotiation skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute procurement processes and operational plans, including RFQs, PO placement, engineering changes, work transfers, and metrics reporting.
• Respond to internal inquiries regarding order status, changes, or cancellations, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Manage purchasing activities for goods, materials, supplies, and services, negotiating favorable terms aligned with company objectives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—Finance, Engineering, Operations, and Program Management—to resolve medium-to-complex supply chain issues.
• Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks to prevent disruptions and production line stops.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders, negotiate pricing, and oversee payment approvals for smooth procurement execution.
• Analyze material quotes and financial data to support informed pricing and cost-saving decisions.
• Monitor supplier contract performance to ensure compliance with terms and conditions.
• Coordinate with suppliers to schedule and expedite deliveries, resolving shortages and delays.
• Own supplier relationship management across assigned commodities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance procurement processes and supply chain performance.
• Ensure products are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management within an ERP-driven environment.
• Strong negotiation, cost analysis, and supplier management skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel pivot tables, PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in SAP and ERP-driven procurement environments.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and understand complex manufacturing processes.
• Background in the aerospace industry , with knowledge of industry standards and practices.
• Demonstrated experience in process improvement and driving operational efficiencies.
• Skilled in Tableau for data analysis and reporting.
• Proven experience in sourcing and procuring a wide range of commodities.
• Strong negotiation skills to manage complex supplier discussions.

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