Senior Buyer & Expeditor

Zone 5 Technologies • San Luis, CA

4d

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 an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Buyer / Expeditor to lead procurement execution and supplier delivery performance in a government defense contracting environment. This role is responsible for end-to-end purchasing activities with a strong emphasis on expediting, supplier coordination, and ensuring on-time material availability to support production and program schedules. The ideal candidate has a strong background in procurement execution, supplier communication, and expediting within regulated environments. This role works cross-functionally with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and program teams to proactively manage supply risks, resolve delivery issues, and ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and internal procurement policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain operations, with a strong focus on expediting or supplier management.
• Experience working in a government contracting or highly regulated environment.
• Strong understanding of purchase order management, supplier coordination, and delivery tracking.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Unanet, SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data tracking.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS and ITAR requirements.
• Experience managing supplier delivery performance and expediting in complex supply chains.
• Background in resolving supplier quality or delivery issues in coordination with cross-functional teams.
• APICS or ISM certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM) or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Execute and manage purchase orders for materials, components, and services in alignment with production schedules and program requirements.
• Actively expedite open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery and quickly resolve delays or supply disruptions.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for suppliers regarding order status, delivery commitments, and issue resolution.
• Monitor and maintain accurate promise dates, delivery schedules, and order status within ERP/MRP systems.
• Ensure purchase orders include all required technical, quality, and contractual flow-down requirements.
• Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including shortages, late deliveries, and capacity constraints.
• Coordinate with suppliers to resolve discrepancies, nonconformances, and receiving issues in partnership with quality and engineering teams.
• Support supplier performance management by tracking on-time delivery, responsiveness, and fulfillment accuracy.
• Collaborate with planning, production, and program teams to prioritize critical material needs and adjust order priorities accordingly.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and ensure audit readiness in compliance with government regulations and internal policies.
• Assist in onboarding new suppliers as needed and ensure proper documentation and compliance requirements are met.
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement execution, expediting processes, and supplier communication.

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: Senior