Senior Buyer

Own end-to-end procurement for assigned commodities, including precision machined components, electromechanical assemblies, optics/lasers, sheet metal, weldments, and metal powders supporting production of Velo3D Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems 

Manage approximately [$X–XM] in annual spend across assigned commodity categories 

Lead complex supplier negotiations focused on cost, lead time, quality, payment terms, and risk reduction; negotiate and administer long-term agreements (LTAs), MSAs, and NDAs 

Develop and execute commodity sourcing strategies, including dual/second-source qualification and supply base rationalization 

Perform should-cost analysis and total cost of ownership (TCO) modeling to drive fact-based negotiations 

Drive cost-reduction and value-engineering initiatives in partnership with Engineering and Operations 

Serve as escalation point for supplier performance, delivery issues, and quality concerns; lead corrective action and continuous improvement efforts using supplier scorecards 

Ensure materials availability to support production plans in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment while optimizing inventory investment 

Maintain and improve purchasing data integrity in [ERP system] (pricing, lead times, MOQs, safety stock parameters) 

Support make/buy decisions and new product introduction (NPI) sourcing activities 

Conduct supplier site visits, business reviews, and audits as needed. Travel to our Fremont, CA office regularly, up to 10% travel. 

Ensure sourcing activities comply with export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) where applicable 

Mentor junior buyers and planners; contribute to supply chain policies, controls, and process improvements 

5–8+ years of progressive procurement or strategic buying experience in a manufacturing environment 

Proven track record leading supplier negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships, including contract negotiation (LTAs, MSAs) 

Strong understanding of supply chain risk management, inventory economics, and cost structures; experience with should-cost or TCO analysis 

Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems ([name system]) and Excel, including data analysis and scenario modeling