What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Buyer position at Velo3D?
Own end-to-end procurement for assigned commodities, including precision machined components, electromechanical assemblies, optics/lasers, sheet metal, weldments, and metal powders supporting production of Velo3D Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems
Manage approximately [$X–XM] in annual spend across assigned commodity categories
Lead complex supplier negotiations focused on cost, lead time, quality, payment terms, and risk reduction; negotiate and administer long-term agreements (LTAs), MSAs, and NDAs
Develop and execute commodity sourcing strategies, including dual/second-source qualification and supply base rationalization
Perform should-cost analysis and total cost of ownership (TCO) modeling to drive fact-based negotiations
Drive cost-reduction and value-engineering initiatives in partnership with Engineering and Operations
Serve as escalation point for supplier performance, delivery issues, and quality concerns; lead corrective action and continuous improvement efforts using supplier scorecards
Ensure materials availability to support production plans in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment while optimizing inventory investment
Maintain and improve purchasing data integrity in [ERP system] (pricing, lead times, MOQs, safety stock parameters)
Support make/buy decisions and new product introduction (NPI) sourcing activities
Conduct supplier site visits, business reviews, and audits as needed. Travel to our Fremont, CA office regularly, up to 10% travel.
Ensure sourcing activities comply with export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) where applicable
Mentor junior buyers and planners; contribute to supply chain policies, controls, and process improvements
5–8 years of progressive procurement or strategic buying experience in a manufacturing environment
Proven track record leading supplier negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships, including contract negotiation (LTAs, MSAs)
Strong understanding of supply chain risk management, inventory economics, and cost structures; experience with should-cost or TCO analysis
Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems ([name system]) and Excel, including data analysis and scenario modeling
Ability to operate autonomously, prioritize in a fast-paced environment, and make sound decisions with incomplete information
Strong communication, influencing, and cross-functional stakeholder management skills
Experience in high-mix, low-volume, capital equipment, or regulated manufacturing (aerospace, defense, semiconductor, medical)
Experience managing suppliers within AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality systems
APICS (CPIM/CSCP), CPSM, or equivalent certification
Experience supporting NPI and rapid production ramp-up
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
Salary : $100,000 - $120,000