Jr. Buyer, Strategic Sourcing

Zone 5 Technologies • San Luis, CA

1d

About The Position

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter. We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here. We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Buyer – Strategic Sourcing to support procurement and supplier sourcing activities in a government defense contracting environment. This role focuses on executing day-to-day buying activities while supporting longer-term strategic sourcing initiatives under the guidance of senior buyers and supply chain leadership. The ideal candidate is early in their procurement career and eager to develop a strong foundation in government contracting compliance, supplier management, and cost analysis. This role works cross-functionally with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and program teams to ensure material availability while maintaining adherence to FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and internal sourcing policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 1–3 years of experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain operations.
• Basic understanding of government contracting environments and regulated supply chains.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Unanet, SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic data analysis.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

• Exposure to aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Introductory knowledge of FAR/DFARS and ITAR requirements.
• Experience supporting Approved Vendor Lists (AVL) or supplier qualification activities.
• Internship or co-op experience in procurement or supply chain.
• Interest in developing skills in strategic sourcing, negotiations, and supplier management.
• APICS or ISM coursework or certification in progress.

Responsibilities

• Execute purchase orders for materials, components, and services using approved suppliers in accordance with procurement policies.
• Support strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier evaluations, cost comparisons, and sourcing recommendations.
• Assist in maintaining and utilizing the Approved Vendor List (AVL) in compliance with government and internal requirements.
• Coordinate with senior buyers to support supplier negotiations and long-term sourcing strategies.
• Ensure purchase orders include appropriate technical, quality, and contractual flow-downs.
• Track supplier deliveries and follow up on open orders to support production schedules.
• Assist with supplier performance tracking, including on-time delivery and quality metrics.
• Support resolution of supplier issues, discrepancies, and nonconformances in coordination with quality and engineering.
• Maintain accurate procurement documentation and audit-ready records.
• Support ERP/MRP system transactions for purchasing, order tracking, and inventory visibility.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to align sourcing activities with program and production needs.

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package
• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level