Direct Buyer III

About the role

Location: Kent, WA; El Segundo, CA; or Altadena, CA. Duration: Through 12/31/2026. The Client is seeking an experienced Level 3 Direct Buyer (Contractor) to support our procurement operations. This role will be responsible for managing the end-to-end procurement of direct materials and services, with a specialized focus on standard Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) products, Discrete Electronic components, and aerospace-related goods and services. The ideal candidate will bring strong negotiation skills, supplier management experience, and the ability to navigate complex procurement requirements in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Responsibilities

• Execute the full procurement lifecycle for direct categories, including COTS products, Discrete Electronics, and aerospace materials/services
• Process purchase requisitions and convert them into purchase orders in compliance with company policies and procedures
• Source, evaluate, and select suppliers based on cost, quality, delivery, and service criteria
• Issue Requests for Quote (RFQs) and Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and conduct competitive bid analyses
• Continue supplier management post-award to maintain supplier commitment schedules and on-time delivery
• Manage procurement of standard commercial off-the-shelf products across multiple categories
• Identify opportunities for catalog buying and standardization to drive efficiency
• Maintain relationships with COTS distributors and manufacturers
• Support procurement of aerospace-related materials, components, and services
• Navigate specialized requirements including quality certifications, traceability, and compliance standards relevant to aerospace applications
• Coordinate with engineering and quality teams on technical and compliance specifications
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliable supply and competitive pricing
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions to achieve cost savings and value
• Resolve supplier issues including quality concerns, delivery delays, and invoice discrepancies
• Partner with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and ensure timely fulfillment
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, contractual requirements, and applicable regulations
• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation
• Support audit activities and reporting requirements

Qualifications

• 5+ years of procurement/purchasing experience, preferably in a direct buying capacity
• Demonstrated experience procuring COTS products and electronics hardware
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
• Proficiency with ERP/procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Coupa)
• Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with aerospace quality standards and procurement compliance requirements
• Understanding of the Coupa and Costpoint ERP systems
• Professional certification (e.g., CPM, CPSM, or equivalent)
• Experience with strategic sourcing and category management
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience

Benefits

• Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate or annual salary only, unless otherwise stated.
• In addition to base compensation, full-time roles are eligible for Medical, Dental, Vision, Commuter and 401K benefits with company matching.

Pay

$67 - $71/hr