Purchasing Manager

Responsibilities

• Manage a highly effective procurement team focused on raw material commodities including aluminum, composites, and 3D printed materials
• Accountable for direct material procurement in support of production demand and rapid engineering development
• Develop global commodity strategies to achieve cost, quality, and delivery goals
• Negotiate pricing on a first principles basis and create bottom-up cost models
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance management, scorecards, and quarterly business reviews
• Partner with internal departments to develop integrated sourcing and procurement strategies
• Collaborate with suppliers to resolve scheduling conflicts, inventory levels, and material shortages
• Ensure ERP procurement and planning data accuracy, including safety stock and lead times
• Conduct market research to uncover new capabilities and potential partnerships

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in purchasing
• Management experience in a fast-paced environment
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of work experience (12+ years total)
• Proven ability to source, onboard, and contract pricing agreements with suppliers
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10%

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or disruptive manufacturing industries
• Experience in a rapid growth environment
• Experience with AS9100
• Knowledge of US export controls (ITAR and EAR)
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills

About the Company

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space.