Buyer

Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion with the first generational leap in rocket engine technology since Apollo. Our proprietary Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine and Venus Detonation Ramjets deliver historic efficiency and performance across aerospace applications. We are building the next generation of propulsion platforms for space, defense, and commercial high-speed flight.

About the role

The Buyer plays a pivotal role in driving our mission forward by executing purchase orders and securing the critical machined parts and raw materials that power our advanced engines and components. This position partners closely with Engineering from early R&D through full production ramp, ensuring we have the right materials at the right time to accelerate innovation. You will make high-impact decisions that directly enable the organization to achieve ambitious targets for cost, quality, and delivery, fueling our most complex and transformative programs.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate supplier capabilities, pricing, delivery commitments, and performance to effectively source required materials.
• Maintain precise, real-time purchasing data within existing systems while supporting the team’s transition to scalable platforms that will enable the organization’s production growth.
• Ensure timely delivery of all materials to the organization.
• Manage and maintain strong business relationships with assigned suppliers.
• Oversee the RFQ process to obtain competitive bids and secure optimal pricing for goods and services.
• Partner closely with Engineering teams to fulfill procurement requirements and serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders regarding order status.
• Provide timely updates to stakeholders on purchase order progress and anticipated delivery dates.
• Lead opportunities to negotiate terms with suppliers to meet quality, cost, and delivery objectives.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a procurement role, including at least 3 years within the aerospace or manufacturing sectors.
• Strong knowledge of machining processes, including CNC milling, CNC turning, multi-axis machining, complex assemblies, special processes, and associated inspection requirements.
• Experience sourcing tight tolerance, low volume/high mix, prototype, development, and production machined components.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to verify supplier capability.
• Demonstrated success in sourcing, onboarding, and negotiating pricing with suppliers.
• Solid understanding of purchasing processes, with the ability to apply systematic thinking to manual workflow.
• Effective communication skills for conveying information verbally and in writing to colleagues, vendors, and customers.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate effectively in environments with ambiguous or evolving requirements.

Skills

• Proficient in using MRP systems.
• Experience within aerospace, automotive, or other innovative manufacturing industries.
• Background in operating within rapid-growth environments.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with AS9100 standards and U.S. export control requirements.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines.
• ASCM/APICS certifications (CPIM and/or CSCP).

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Stock options
• Medical benefits, including dental and vision
• Flex-Friday flexible schedule
• Unlimited PTO
• Professional development opportunities

Location: On-site in Houston, TX

This position involves access to technology subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to comply with U.S. export controls, including ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State).