Senior Buyer & Expeditor at Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CaliforniaFull-timeSupply ChainPosted 23 days ago

About the Role

<div class="content-intro">At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter. We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.</div>We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Buyer / Expeditor to lead procurement execution and supplier delivery performance in a government defense contracting environment. This role is responsible for end-to-end purchasing activities with a strong emphasis on expediting, supplier coordination, and ensuring on-time material availability to support production and program schedules.  The ideal candidate has a strong background in procurement execution, supplier communication, and expediting within regulated environments. This role works cross-functionally with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and program teams to proactively manage supply risks, resolve delivery issues, and ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and internal procurement policies. Key Responsibilities  • Execute and manage purchase orders for materials, components, and services in alignment with production schedules and program requirements.  • Actively expedite open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery and quickly resolve delays or supply disruptions.  • Serve as the primary point of contact for suppliers regarding order status, delivery commitments, and issue resolution.  • Monitor and maintain accurate promise dates, delivery schedules, and order status within ERP/MRP systems.  • Ensure purchase orders include all required technical, quality, and contractual flow-down requirements.  • Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including shortages, late deliveries, and capacity constraints.  • Coordinate with suppliers to resolve discrepancies, nonconformances, and receiving issues in partnership with quality and engineering teams.  • Support supplier performance management by tracking on-time delivery, responsiveness, and fulfillment accuracy.  • Collaborate with planning, production, and program teams to prioritize critical material needs and adjust order priorities accordingly.  • Maintain accurate procurement records and ensure audit readiness in compliance with government regulations and internal policies.  • Assist in onboarding new suppliers as needed and ensure proper documentation and compliance requirements are met.  • Drive continuous improvement in procurement execution, expediting processes, and supplier communication.  Required Qualifications  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).  • 5+ years of experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain operations, with a strong focus on expediting or supplier management.  • Experience working in a government contracting or highly regulated environment.  • Strong understanding of purchase order management, supplier coordination, and delivery tracking.  • Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Unanet, SAP, Oracle, or similar).  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data tracking.  • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.  Preferred Qualifications  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments.  • Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS and ITAR requirements.  • Experience managing supplier delivery performance and expediting in complex supply chains.  • Background in resolving supplier quality or delivery issues in coordination with cross-functional teams.  • APICS or ISM certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM) or equivalent.  Key Competencies  • Strong sense of urgency and ability to manage time-critical deliverables.  • Detail-oriented with a compliance-focused mindset.  • Excellent communication and supplier relationship management skills.  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.  • Proactive problem-solver with strong follow-through.  • Collaborative team player with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders.  • High level of professionalism and accountability in supplier interactions. <div class="content-pay-transparency"><div class="pay-input"><div class="title">Pay range for this role</div><div class="pay-range">$93,000—$150,000 USD</div></div></div><div class="content-conclusion">What's in it for you: Benefits:  <ul> <li>Competitive total compensation package </li> <li>Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.</li> <li>401k with company-match </li> <li>4 weeks of paid time off each year</li> <li>12 annual company holidays</li> </ul> Why Join Zone 5 Technologies? <ul> <li>Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.</li> <li>Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.</li> <li>Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.</li> </ul> If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: <a id="menur1c92" class="fui-Link ___1q1shib f2hkw1w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1s184ao f1mk8lai fnbmjn9 f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://www.e-verify.gov" target="_blank">https://www.e-verify.gov</a>.</div>

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