Buyer 1

Astronautics Corporation of America•Oak Creek, WI

4h•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Buyer 1! In this role, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliable and cost-effective supply of avionics, components, and direct materials that support both development and production programs. You will lead supplier negotiations, manage RFQs and purchase orders, and build strong partnerships with key suppliers to drive performance, quality, and on-time delivery. Working cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Customer Service, and Supply Chain, you will help secure long-term pricing agreements, maintain compliance with commercial and government contract requirements, and ensure materials are delivered in alignment with customer commitments. Your work will directly impact program execution, cost control, and overall supply chain performance. This hybrid, on-site position will report directly to the Direct Sourcing Manager.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Engineering, or another related field from an accredited institution. Alternatively, a High School Diploma with at least three years of full-time procurement experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Minimum one year of experience in a procurement-related function.
Familiarity with material procurement in a lean manufacturing environment, leveraging volume spend, inventory turns, and continuous improvement tools.
Experience working with an ERP system. IFS experience is preferred.
Experience using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Teams).
Exposure to methods used to drive direct material sourcing savings.
Ability to resolve problems to attain goals and manage project timelines to meet deadlines.
Must be able to build strong working relationships with suppliers, internal customers, and stakeholders.
Eligible to work in the US without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

One or more years of experience in a procurement or supply chain-related function
Experience in Avionics
Knowledge of FAR/DFAR and commercial procurement regulations

Responsibilities

Follow a structured negotiation process to conduct supplier negotiations and contracting.
Track KPIs and goals, monitor scorecards to measure and evaluate supplier performance.
Evaluate, select, develop, aggregate spend, support sourcing efforts, and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure a reliable supply of materials.
Prepare and administer bids, proposals, and commercial and government contracts in accordance with company policies and legal requirements.
Ensure purchase orders are administered and monitored to maintain compliance with the terms of agreements.
Develop & sustain relationships with critical suppliers by communicating & conducting regular status and issue reviews.
Work closely with quality to manage the disposition of defective or rejected products.
Analyze and evaluate proposals and negotiate long-term pricing agreements.
Negotiate commercial terms.
Utilize ERP tools to ensure that customer deadlines are met.
Expedite and manage purchase requisitions and purchase orders for timely delivery.
Ensure compliance with pricing, payment terms, volume commitments, rebates, etc.