What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer position at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions?
Job Description
Readiness Delivered. Kratos delivers immersive, high-fidelity training environments that enhance readiness across air, ground, maritime, and space domains. Using advanced simulation systems that integrate Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), Kratos helps warfighters build tactical skills, improve decision-making, and accelerate operational performance before they enter live operations. Kratos has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Buyer. Join our fast-paced, small-business-minded team as a Senior Buyer supporting a U.S. Government FAR/DFARS-regulated (CPSR-compliant) environment. In this role, you’ll manage the procurement of custom sheet metal and machined parts—from small brackets to large weldments—while partnering closely with engineering, quality, accounting, and scheduling teams. You will use approved vendor lists and MRP-generated requisitions to source competitive quotes, analyze bids, and issue accurate, timely purchase orders. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, thrives on detail, and excels at balancing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
What You’ll Do
5 years’ experience purchasing fabricated sheet metal and machined parts
Demonstrated strong analytical skills for BOM costing, evaluating supplier bids including cost analyses in compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations.
Highly organized, common-sense approach to problem solving, abilities to self-manage, and set priorities.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with both internal and external customers.
Working knowledge of engineering drawings for the purpose of procurement
Negotiation skills while continuing effective vendor working relationships.
Solid understanding of how manufacturing interfaces with the supply chain team.
Technical understanding of engineering concepts that match corresponding vendor capabilities.
Preferred Skills/Experience
Deltek Costpoint MRP system and COGN report writer
Advanced Excel Spreadsheet Capabilities & Related Computer Skills
Experience working in a CPSR compliant environment
Professional certification: APICS CPM, CPIM
Lean Manufacturing and Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Procurement documentation systems such as SpendLogic
Competitive salary based on experience and education
Kratos experts design, develop, and manufacture a full range of reconfigurable and platform-specific training systems, like the Marine Common Aircrew Trainer (MCAT). From rigorous, data-driven curriculum design to contractor logistics support and ongoing system upgrades, Kratos’ end-to-end services help ensure military organizations across the world are equipped with scalable, cost-effective training that keeps pace with modern mission demands.
This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Job Benefits
Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.
EEO Is The Law
Disability Accessibility Accommodation
If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.
Pay Transparency
The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
Job Applicant Privacy Notice
For applicants in the EU and California residents, please review our privacy notice.
Readiness Delivered. Kratos delivers immersive, high-fidelity training environments that enhance readiness across air, ground, maritime, and space domains. Using advanced simulation systems that integrate Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), Kratos helps warfighters build tactical skills, improve decision-making, and accelerate operational performance before they enter live operations. Kratos has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Buyer. Join our fast-paced, small-business-minded team as a Senior Buyer supporting a U.S. Government FAR/DFARS-regulated (CPSR-compliant) environment. In this role, you’ll manage the procurement of custom sheet metal and machined parts—from small brackets to large weldments—while partnering closely with engineering, quality, accounting, and scheduling teams. You will use approved vendor lists and MRP-generated requisitions to source competitive quotes, analyze bids, and issue accurate, timely purchase orders. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, thrives on detail, and excels at balancing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
What You’ll Do
- Procure fabricated sheet metal and machined components
- Manage purchase orders, delivery schedules, and supplier performance
- Interpret engineering drawings and revisions to ensure accurate sourcing
- Evaluate supplier bids, including cost analysis in compliance with FAR/DFARS
- Maintain strong vendor relationships and negotiate effectively
- Facilitate communication between suppliers and internal teams
- Support continuous improvement within the supply chain and manufacturing workflow
5 years’ experience purchasing fabricated sheet metal and machined parts
Demonstrated strong analytical skills for BOM costing, evaluating supplier bids including cost analyses in compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations.
Highly organized, common-sense approach to problem solving, abilities to self-manage, and set priorities.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with both internal and external customers.
Working knowledge of engineering drawings for the purpose of procurement
Negotiation skills while continuing effective vendor working relationships.
Solid understanding of how manufacturing interfaces with the supply chain team.
Technical understanding of engineering concepts that match corresponding vendor capabilities.
Preferred Skills/Experience
Deltek Costpoint MRP system and COGN report writer
Advanced Excel Spreadsheet Capabilities & Related Computer Skills
Experience working in a CPSR compliant environment
Professional certification: APICS CPM, CPIM
Lean Manufacturing and Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Procurement documentation systems such as SpendLogic
Competitive salary based on experience and education
Kratos experts design, develop, and manufacture a full range of reconfigurable and platform-specific training systems, like the Marine Common Aircrew Trainer (MCAT). From rigorous, data-driven curriculum design to contractor logistics support and ongoing system upgrades, Kratos’ end-to-end services help ensure military organizations across the world are equipped with scalable, cost-effective training that keeps pace with modern mission demands.
This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Job Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
- Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
- Paid Time-Off (PTO)
- Holidays
- Education Reimbursement
Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.
EEO Is The Law
Disability Accessibility Accommodation
If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.
Pay Transparency
The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
Job Applicant Privacy Notice
For applicants in the EU and California residents, please review our privacy notice.