Founding Supply Chain Procurement

Aetherflux • San Carlos, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Head of Supply Chain / Procurement will own the strategy, build-out, and execution of the company’s global supply chain across satellite production, payload systems, avionics, propulsion, structures, and ground segment hardware. You will architect procurement processes, manage supplier partnerships, mitigate risk across long-lead and space-qualified components, and enable the company to scale from low-rate production to repeatable satellite manufacturing.
This leader will report to the COO/CLO, but work cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Finance to ensure cost, quality, and delivery objectives are achieved. This is an in-person role at our San Carlos, CA HQ.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive experience in supply chain, procurement, or operations
• Experience in aerospace, satellite, defense, automotive, or other complex hardware industries
• Proven track record scaling supply chains in a high-growth manufacturing environment
• Strong contract negotiation and supplier management expertise
• Experience managing long-lead and regulated components
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams

Nice To Haves

• Experience with space-qualified components and satellite manufacturing, experience implementing ERP/MRP systems, and knowledge of global trade compliance and export regulations

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a scalable supply chain strategy aligned with production and launch cadence
• Build and lead procurement, sourcing, planning, and supplier quality teams
• Establish KPIs across cost, delivery, quality, and inventory performance
• Source and negotiate contracts for space-grade components (radiation-hardened electronics, propulsion systems, solar arrays, structures, payloads, etc.)
• Manage long-lead and single-source suppliers with proactive risk mitigation
• Lead make vs. buy analysis and cost modeling
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and favorable commercial terms
• Implement robust RFQ and supplier selection processes
• Develop strategic supplier partnerships globally; establish supplier performance scorecards and continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure organizational compliance with aerospace standards and regulations (ITAR/EAR)
• Build forecasting and demand planning processes aligned with satellite build schedule
• Optimize inventory levels while managing long-lead components
• Implement ERP/MRP systems to support scaling production
• Ensure materials readiness for integration and launch milestones
• Identify and mitigate supply risks including obsolescence and allocation
• Support traceability and documentation for mission assurance
• Build contingency plans for critical components
• Drive cost-down initiatives across the bill of materials, while improving working capital efficiency
• Partner with Finance on budgeting, forecasting, and margin analysis

Benefits

• Equity in Aetherflux
• Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance; long-term disability and life insurance for employees
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• 10 paid holidays per calendar year
• Paid leave for new parents
• Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed