NPI Buyer

PDW • Huntsville, AL

1d

About The Position

Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are proudly American-owned, with all design, engineering, and manufacturing conducted domestically. We don’t sell vapor—we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.
As we enter a new phase of growth, we are seeking an NPI Buyer to support the successful introduction of new products and ensure supply chain readiness from concept through production.
The NPI Buyer plays a critical role at the intersection of Engineering, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing. This position is responsible for supporting sourcing strategy, procurement execution, and supplier management for new product introductions (NPI) while supporting ongoing production needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or NPI environments.
• Strong understanding of RFIs/RFQs, sourcing strategies, and supplier qualification.
• Experience managing ECRs/ECOs and change control processes.
• Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with PCBAs, harnesses, electronics, and mechanical components.
• Experience buying material for NPI programs.
• ERP/MRP system experience (NetSuite preferred).
• Experience with inventory and parts management systems.

Responsibilities

• Support end-to-end NPI supply chain activities, from supplier identification through production ramp-up.
• Own and maintain NPI supply chain data as the single source of truth (part status, sourcing timelines, vendor ownership).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Engineering purchase requests (PRs) from creation through supplier placement.
• Act as the supply chain lead for NPI projects, ensuring alignment with program milestones and delivery schedules.
• Serve as SME for component sourcing, cost analysis, and procurement execution.
• Identify early risks in program and create a plan to mitigate those risks.
• Lead RFIs/RFQs, bid processes, and supplier selection.
• Manage procurement of PCBAs, harnesses, long-lead electronic components, and mechanical components and assemblies.
• Ensure purchasing aligns with project milestones and required lead times.
• Manage new contract manufacturer (CM) and supplier relationships.
• Oversee supplier onboarding, including NDAs, system setup, and compliance requirements.
• Lead supplier qualification and performance management.
• Support dual sourcing strategies and help mitigate supply chain risks.
• Evaluate sourcing changes and recommend improvements.
• Support engineering change implementation to ensure material readiness.
• Lead quality collaboration with Engineering for acceptance testing and supplier validation.
• Ensure seamless coordination between Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Production.
• Maintain tools, reports, and dashboards to improve procurement visibility and efficiency.
• Support compliance activities across subcontractors and vendor base.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives to modernize purchasing and NPI execution.

Benefits

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees