SUPPLY CHAIN

Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enables our technicians to put together our Electron rockets, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together, and are critical to our success.

SENIOR BUYER

Build and sustain a supply chain in which every purchased production item has a stable supply, from a reliable supplier, with exceptional quality, and under agreed commercial terms. Guide engineering teams on proper sourcing strategy, support suppliers with new product introduction, and collaborate with quality teams to establish efficient and effective validation strategies. Ensure suppliers are developed to grow with Rocket Lab and relationships are set up to foster collaboration and proactively identify/mitigate risks.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Responsible for placing Purchase Orders with suppliers, to meet demand
• Responsible for sourcing for new engineering design releases
• Negotiate pricing with suppliers to reduce total material cost
• Manage suppliers for Cost, Quality, and Delivery
• Identify part supply constraints that may impact production schedule, and create mitigation plans
• Accountable for ensuring supplier master data within MRP is accurate
• Work in a cross functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functional groups to achieve company-wide goals.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, supply chain, or other relevant fields
• 5 years of related experience as Buyer, Material Planner, Production Planner, or equivalent
• Experience with AS9100, ITAR export controls, EAR, and FAR
• Proven ability to onboard and contract pricing agreements with suppliers
• Proficient in MS Office, ERP systems, math and statistics

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Proficient in SQL and MRP systems
• Experience in aerospace or automotive manufacturing
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Prior experience in rapid growth environment
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment and to multiple deadlines