Senior Technical Buyer
The Senior Technical Buyer is responsible for sourcing and procuring technical materials and services in support of engineering, prototype, and production programs. The role combines hands-on purchasing with supplier development, cost optimization, and continuous improvement of supply chain processes.
Specific duties include:
1. Procurement & Supplier Management
- Source and procure technical components and services
- Lead RFQs, supplier selection, and contract negotiation
- Manage supplier performance (cost, quality, delivery)
- Expand and manage Approved Vendor List (AVL)
2. Engineering & Program Support
- Interpret engineering drawings and BOMs
- Partner with engineering to improve RFQ quality and manufacturability
- Support prototype and production programs
- Coordinate sourcing for engineering changes and releases
3. Supply Chain Improvement
- Drive cost reduction and lead-time improvements
- Improve procurement processes, RFQs, and supplier onboarding
- Support ERP/MRP data accuracy and process efficiency
- Contribute to supply chain strategy and scalability
4. Supplier Development
- Evaluate supplier capabilities (including site visits)
- Develop long-term supplier relationships
- Monitor and improve supplier performance
- Support qualification of new suppliers
- Manage continuous improvement and supplier evaluations (audits)
Experience
- BS, Supply Chain Management, preferred, or BS in Engineering or in Operations Management or equivalent business experience.
- 5+ years of technical procurement experience (aerospace strongly preferred)
- Quality Assurance Experience (knowledge of AS9100 Quality Standard)
- A strong proven track-record in leading major procurement exercises including inviting/selecting suppliers, managing purchase contracts; purchase contract development work and developing suppliers.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and writing skills
- ERP and MRP experience.
- KPI definition and tracking.
- Computer literacy using Microsoft Office products, such as, Word, Excel, Access, Project and PowerPoint.