Jr. Buyer, Strategic Sourcing

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Buyer – Strategic Sourcing to support procurement and supplier sourcing activities in a government defense contracting environment. This role focuses on executing day-to-day buying activities while supporting longer-term strategic sourcing initiatives under the guidance of senior buyers and supply chain leadership.

The ideal candidate is early in their procurement career and eager to develop a strong foundation in government contracting compliance, supplier management, and cost analysis. This role works cross-functionally with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and program teams to ensure material availability while maintaining adherence to FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and internal sourcing policies.

Key Responsibilities:

· Execute purchase orders for materials, components, and services using approved suppliers in accordance with procurement policies.

· Support strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier evaluations, cost comparisons, and sourcing recommendations.

· Assist in maintaining and utilizing the Approved Vendor List (AVL) in compliance with government and internal requirements.

· Coordinate with senior buyers to support supplier negotiations and long-term sourcing strategies.

· Ensure purchase orders include appropriate technical, quality, and contractual flow-downs.

· Track supplier deliveries and follow up on open orders to support production schedules.

· Assist with supplier performance tracking, including on-time delivery and quality metrics.

· Support resolution of supplier issues, discrepancies, and nonconformances in coordination with quality and engineering.

· Maintain accurate procurement documentation and audit-ready records.

· Support ERP/MRP system transactions for purchasing, order tracking, and inventory visibility.

· Participate in cross-functional meetings to align sourcing activities with program and production needs.

Required Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

· 1–3 years of experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain operations.

· Basic understanding of government contracting environments and regulated supply chains.

· Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Unanet, SAP, Oracle, or similar).

· Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic data analysis.

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Exposure to aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments.

· Introductory knowledge of FAR/DFARS and ITAR requirements.

· Experience supporting Approved Vendor Lists (AVL) or supplier qualification activities.

· Internship or co-op experience in procurement or supply chain.

· Interest in developing skills in strategic sourcing, negotiations, and supplier management.

· APICS or ISM coursework or certification in progress.

Key Competencies:

· Strong willingness to learn and grow in a regulated procurement environment.

· Detail-oriented with a compliance-focused mindset.

· Effective written and verbal communication skills.

· Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

· Collaborative team player with a proactive attitude.

· Sound judgment and professionalism when interacting with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Compensation:

Level I - $72k - $83k
Level II - $83k - $106k