Buyer

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains. Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.

As a Buyer, you support production and development programs by acquiring critical materials, components, and services. You strengthen supplier relationships, coordinate delivery schedules, track performance, and help mitigate supply-chain risks. Your work ensures that program needs are met in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment and contributes directly to reliable execution of mission-critical manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Builds relationships with existing and internal suppliers, coordinates delivery schedules, and evaluates supplier performance.
• Leads regular supplier tag‑ups to monitor open orders, address bottlenecks, and mitigate delivery risks.
• Monitors market trends and supply‑chain material shortages to support proactive procurement planning.
• Coordinates Manufacturing Readiness Reviews with suppliers to assess production capacity, delivery performance, quality reliability, and compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Supports risk‑mitigation efforts by evaluating supply‑base strengths and weaknesses and developing contingency plans for critical components.
• Processes purchase requisitions to issue purchase orders and tracks part deliveries across programs and departments.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, or a related field.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, Excel, and Outlook.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement or strategic sourcing, preferably within the space, aerospace, or defense industries.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong time‑management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to ethical practices and strong attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Epicor Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
• Ten or more years of experience in supplier management or supply‑chain administration.
• Experience in the space and defense industry.

Special Mentions

• No travel is required for this position.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD\&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.