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 with 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%.