Buyer

Job Title: Buyer

Location: TX or NM Preferred, Remote Work in US

About Us: X-Bow Systems is an innovative aerospace and defense company revolutionizing propulsion systems for space exploration and defense applications. As a growing startup, we operate in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability, independence, and hands-on problem-solving are key to success. We are seeking a Buyer who thrives in dynamic environments, can manage complex contracts and purchasing independently, and has experience in regulated industries or manufacturing environments.

Job Summary: The Buyer will manage the procurement lifecycle for diverse programs and departments, focusing on sourcing, negotiating, supplier management and executing contracts for specialized materials, equipment, and services. This role requires a proactive, hands-on approach to procurement, with the ability to adapt to fast-changing situations and work independently medium to low level guidance.

Key Responsibilities:

- Procurement Lifecycle Management:

- Independently manage the entire procurement process, including sourcing, negotiation, awarding, oversight, tracking, acceptance, and payment.

- Execute and manage complex contracts for commodities such as metals, MRO, manufacturing services, aerospace materials, chemicals, and capital assets.

- Supplier and Contract Management:

- Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, ensuring compliance with engineering, quality, and regulatory requirements.

- Develop and implement cost-saving strategies, lead time improvements, and supplier rationalization initiatives.

- Drive excellence in on time delivery and spend management across multiple commodities.

- Cross-Functional Collaboration:

- Partner with Quality and Engineering teams to develop procurement requirements and terms and conditions.

- Work closely with program, planning, and operations teams to provide status updates, action plans, and recovery strategies.

- Process Improvement:

- Identify opportunities to streamline procurement processes, including consolidating purchasing volume and implementing long-term agreements.

- Conduct audits and assessments to identify gaps and improve procurement efficiency.

- Ensure core values of Supply Chain on Best Value and Strategic Deployment are ever present in sourcing process

- Adaptability and Problem-Solving:

- Handle fast-changing situations and workloads with minimal supervision, creating efficiencies to streamline processes.

- Take ownership of decision-making in diverse environments, ensuring positive outcomes.

Qualifications:

- Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related discipline. Experience:

- 4+ years of hands-on experience managing the entire procurement process in regulated industries or manufacturing environments.

- Experience with aerospace materials such as BTP (build to print) metals, propellant chemicals, adhesives, insulators, and tooling.

- Skills: Proven ability to negotiate and manage complex contracts independently.

- Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in fast-changing situations.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.

- Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, and International Trade Compliance.

- Experience working within an ISO9001 or AS9100 Quality Management System.

- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Project, MRP/ERP system, as well as other information systems/data management tools.

- Travel: Willingness to travel up to 15%.