Sr. Buyer
About the role
The Senior Buyer owns strategic and tactical procurement for critical materials and services supporting production of Velo3D's Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems. Operating in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment, this role goes well beyond PO execution: you will develop commodity strategies, lead supplier negotiations, drive cost and risk reduction, and partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Quality. The ideal candidate is analytical, self-directed, and comfortable making decisions with incomplete information in a fast-paced, growth-stage company where individual ownership has visible impact.
Responsibilities
- Own end-to-end procurement for assigned commodities, including precision machined components, electromechanical assemblies, optics/lasers, sheet metal, weldments, and metal powders supporting production of Velo3D Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems
- Lead complex supplier negotiations focused on cost, lead time, quality, payment terms, and risk reduction; negotiate and administer long-term agreements (LTAs), MSAs, and NDAs
- Develop and execute commodity sourcing strategies, including dual/second-source qualification and supply base rationalization
- Perform should-cost analysis and total cost of ownership (TCO) modeling to drive fact-based negotiations
- Drive cost-reduction and value-engineering initiatives in partnership with Engineering and Operations
- Serve as escalation point for supplier performance, delivery issues, and quality concerns; lead corrective action and continuous improvement efforts using supplier scorecards
- Ensure materials availability to support production plans in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment while optimizing inventory investment
- Maintain and improve purchasing data integrity in [ERP system] (pricing, lead times, MOQs, safety stock parameters)
- Support make/buy decisions and new product introduction (NPI) sourcing activities
- Conduct supplier site visits, business reviews, and audits as needed. Travel to our Fremont, CA office regularly, up to 10% travel.
- Ensure sourcing activities comply with export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) where applicable
- Mentor junior buyers and planners; contribute to supply chain policies, controls, and process improvements
Qualifications
- 5–8+ years of progressive procurement or strategic buying experience in a manufacturing environment
- Proven track record leading supplier negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships, including contract negotiation (LTAs, MSAs)
- Strong understanding of supply chain risk management, inventory economics, and cost structures; experience with should-cost or TCO analysis
- Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems ([name system]) and Excel, including data analysis and scenario modeling
- Ability to operate autonomously, prioritize in a fast-paced environment, and make sound decisions with incomplete information
- Strong communication, influencing, and cross-functional stakeholder management skills
Benefits
- Healthcare coverage
- 401(K) employer contributions
- Monthly all-hands meetings
- Team member appreciation awards
Pay
The starting base salary for this full-time position is between $100,000 and $120,000. This salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this position in the U.S. The actual base pay is dependent upon many factors, such as work experience, job-related skills, related education, work location, and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. In addition to a competitive base salary and a comprehensive benefits package, this position may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and equity program, as applicable.