Senior Buyer / Planner

Busek•Natick, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Busek Co. Inc. is seeking a Senior Buyer/Planner to support research and development, engineering, and manufacturing through procurement of commercial off-the-shelf components and specialized, custom-manufactured parts for spacecraft subsystems. The position supports R&D programs, prototype builds, and development schedules, ensuring timely and cost-effective sourcing that meets aerospace quality standards. The role calls for strong negotiation and supplier-management skills, knowledge of procurement best practices, and experience supporting engineering and manufacturing teams in a technically demanding environment. The position is on-site in Natick, Massachusetts, and is limited to U.S. citizens because of work under U.S. government contracts and related security and contractual requirements.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or a buyer/planner role; aerospace, defense, R&D, or high-tech manufacturing experience is preferred.
Proven success in vendor negotiations and supplier relationship management.
Experience sourcing custom components and working with suppliers to meet technical specifications and delivery requirements.
Proficiency with ERP or purchase order management systems.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, bills of materials, and other technical documentation.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively with engineers and other technical stakeholders.
U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting R&D, prototype builds, engineering development, or low-volume manufacturing.
Experience in an AS9100D- or ISO-certified environment.
Familiarity with aerospace components, machining processes, and specialized manufacturing suppliers.
Working knowledge of cost drivers in low-volume, high-reliability hardware procurement.
Ability to source parts while designs, specifications, and quantities are still evolving.

Responsibilities

Source, evaluate, and select suppliers for materials, components, and services, including custom-machined parts, specialized hardware, and space-grade components.
Procure components and materials for prototype builds, testing, and new product development in support of R&D and engineering teams.
Manage end-to-end procurement, including requests for quotation, supplier negotiations, and cost and terms analysis.
Prepare and issue purchase orders, ensuring appropriate approvals, accurate specifications, and delivery schedules.
Monitor purchase order status and proactively communicate delays or supply issues that could affect development, testing, or production schedules.
Work with engineering, R&D, production, and quality teams to understand technical requirements and identify suitable suppliers.
Maintain procurement records for pricing, delivery, quality, and vendor performance history.
Develop and maintain supplier relationships to support evolving engineering requirements, short lead times, and changing development priorities.
Support supplier audits, vendor onboarding, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Ensure compliance with internal procedures and applicable quality, regulatory, and U.S. government requirements.