Sr. Buyer

FDH Aero•Commerce, CA

2d•$80,000 - $95,000

About The Position

The Sr. Buyer is responsible for costing, negotiation, profitability, purchasing, sourcing, sales-team and production support, technical assistance, bill of material management, and inventory management for products and materials procured for the business. The position focuses on maximizing gross margins, helping the sales organization win business through effective sourcing and costing, and managing inventory to maximize return on investment while meeting customer and company requirements. The role requires a strong understanding of the aerospace industry, supply chain dynamics, and procurement processes. FDH Aero is a global supply chain solutions partner for aerospace and defense companies, specializing in hardware, electrical products, consumables and expendables, licensed products, and value-added services. The company operates across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC, with more than 1,500 employees and locations in 14 countries. Applicants must meet the stated U.S. person status requirements because the position involves access to information governed by ITAR and/or EAR. Some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, or a related field is preferred.
At least 5 years of procurement experience; aerospace-industry experience is preferred.
Strong knowledge of aerospace materials, components, and manufacturing processes.
Familiarity with aerospace regulations and standards, such as AS9100, ITAR, and EAR.
Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Proficiency with procurement software and tools.
Analytical mindset and ability to make data-driven decisions.
Strong project management skills and attention to detail.
Self-motivated, quick learner able to multitask in a high-pressure environment.
Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to inclusion.
Team-oriented, with the ability to motivate team members.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or have qualifying asylee or refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Must meet applicable ITAR and/or EAR U.S.-person documentation requirements; some positions require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.

Nice To Haves

A master's degree is a plus.
Procurement experience in the aerospace industry is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute procurement strategies for aerospace components and materials.
Collaborate with engineering, production, quality control, and other cross-functional teams to identify requirements.
Assess and select suppliers based on cost, quality, delivery, and reliability.
Provide technical and product knowledge when required.
Establish and maintain relationships with current and prospective suppliers.
Negotiate supplier contracts, terms, and pricing agreements to secure favorable terms.
Monitor supplier performance and key performance indicators, taking corrective action as needed.
Conduct cost analysis and identify supply-chain cost-saving opportunities.
Implement cost-reduction strategies, including value engineering and alternative sourcing, without compromising quality or reliability.
Manage inventory levels to balance stock availability and carrying costs.
Develop and implement inventory control processes to minimize excess and obsolete inventory.
Work with the quality department to ensure suppliers meet or exceed aerospace quality standards and certifications.
Address and resolve procurement-related quality issues.
Identify supply-chain risks, including geopolitical, economic, and logistical risks, and develop mitigation strategies to maintain continuity.
Ensure procurement complies with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards; monitor regulatory changes and adjust practices as needed.
Prepare reports on procurement activities, cost savings, supplier performance, and supply-chain KPIs.
Provide senior management with data-based insights and recommendations.
Perform other duties as assigned.