Supply Chain Project Manager

Location: Irvine, United States of America

Thales people architect solutions that enable two-thirds of planes to take off and land safely. We create in-flight entertainment systems that engross 50 million fliers every year and we develop the avionics that control the world’s largest commercial aircrafts. Our simulators train the next generation of pilots for fighter jets, transporters and search and rescue helicopters. And, together, each and every member of our aerospace team makes a difference.

Supply Chain Project Manager

Irvine, CA

Position Summary

Thales is looking for an Supply Chain Project Manager, who is responsible for developing and executing new supply chain processes—such as direct ship and temporary import bond processes—to mitigate tariff exposure and improve operational efficiency.

In this position, you will lead cross-functional initiatives, coordinating with internal stakeholders and external partners to optimize the end-to-end flow of materials from suppliers to customers. The job holder ensures compliance with trade regulations, integration with ERP/MRP systems, and alignment with business objectives.

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Project Leadership & Cross-Functional Coordination. Lead critical projects to improve supply chain performance and reduce costs associated with tariffs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (PMA, quality, supply chain, trade compliance, operations) to align deliverables and ensure project milestones are met.
• Work closely with the plant merger team to harmonize functional processes and ERP/MRP systems. Design and pilot a direct ship model in partnership with key suppliers (e.g., displays, cables).
• Manage full-scale rollout across all eligible suppliers and customer sites following successful pilots. Coordinate and pilot direct shipment with at least one customer located outside the U.S.
• Develop and document the end-to-end temporary import bond process in compliance with U.S. and international trade regulations. Pilot and implement the process at scale with international customers, ensuring timely delivery and tariff mitigation.
• Define and implement mitigation strategies to reduce tariff costs, including duty drawback, direct shipment, and bonded imports. Partner with the trade compliance team to ensure all solutions adhere to regulatory requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering with a minimum 8 years of relevant experience. 5+ years of experience in supply chain, logistics, preferably in a global manufacturing and/or aerospace /high-tech environment. Knowledge of international trade regulations, customs compliance, and tariff mitigation strategies.
• Experience implementing direct ship or bonded logistics models is highly desirable. Proficient in ERP/MRP systems (SAP).
• Track record in project management preferably global projects. Proficient user of Microsoft Excel, Powerpoint.
• Strong ability to break down complex issues, identify root causes and develop practical solutions. Results oriented, decisive and assertive in execution.
• Holds self and others accountable, demonstrates strong ownership. Skilled in communication, constructive confrontation, challenging the status-quo  and issue resolution.
• Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration with functional teams. Self-starting mindset, with an ability to prioritize tasks while dealing with disruptions in a fast- paced environment, seeing ‘ambiguity’ as an opportunity to improve.

Special Position Requirements

• Schedule: Core business hours 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, may be required to periodically work outside core business hours on weekdays and weekends due to business needs. 
• Physical Environment: General Office Environment.
• Travel: Please select This position may require domestic and/or international travel 20%.

If you’re excited about working with Thales, but not meeting the requirements for this position, we encourage you to join our Talent Community!

What We Offer

Thales provides an extensive benefits program for all full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week and their eligible dependents, including the following: 

• Elective Health and Dental plans. 
• Retirement Savings Plan with a company contribution and a match, and without vesting period. 
• Company paid holidays, vacation days, and paid sick leave. 
• Company provided Life Insurance.

Why Join Us?

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