Material Purchaser

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Purchase aerospace materials such as aluminum, sheet metal, hardware, fasteners, extrusions, and specialty items per engineering specifications
• Generate and manage purchase orders and ensure delivery schedules align with production needs
• Monitor inventory levels and adjust orders to meet just-in-time requirements
• Collaborate with planning, engineering, and quality departments to align procurement with technical and compliance needs
• Identify, qualify, and manage supplier relationships, including tracking performance and resolving issues
• Support cost-reduction initiatives by negotiating pricing, lead times, and payment terms
• Ensure compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal purchasing requirements (e.g., AS9100, DFARS, ITAR)
• Maintain accurate purchasing records in ERP/MRP systems and participate in audits or reviews

KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge of aerospace materials, specifications, and documentation requirements (e.g., material certs, traceability, DFARS compliance)
• Familiarity with procurement policies, purchase agreements, and vendor performance management
• Understanding of ERP/MRP systems used in aerospace manufacturing
• Basic understanding of quality assurance, part number configuration, and engineering change processes

COMPETENCIES

• Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills
• Effective communication and negotiation skills
• Detail-oriented with the ability to interpret technical documents
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to work under pressure
• Team collaboration and ability to work across departments

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• High school diploma or GED required
• 1–3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain within the aerospace or manufacturing industry
• Previous experience purchasing metals, aerospace hardware, or raw materials preferred
• Experience using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, IFS, Infor)

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office setting with regular interaction with production and quality departments
• Occasional visits to manufacturing areas and vendor locations
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment typical of aerospace operations
• Prolonged periods working at a computer
• Occasional lifting of small packages or material samples (up to 25 lbs)
• Walking and standing during shop floor visits or inventory checks

WORK AUTHORIZATION

• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident