Strategic Aerospace Buyer & Supplier Leader

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a proactive Buyer to secure our supply chain across launch vehicles, satellites, and subsystems. You will convert requisitions to POs, evaluate vendors, and ensure on-time delivery while managing supplier relationships and RFQs.

You will collaborate with Engineering on R&D orders and keep planners informed of PO status and delivery dates. This role requires a detail-oriented, proactive communicator who can navigate a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Qualifications

• Must be able to source, onboard and negotiate pricing with suppliers.
• Solid knowledge of purchasing processes.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills with prioritisation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Team-oriented and able to multi-task under deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Convert purchase requisitions into purchase orders, evaluating vendor capability, price, delivery, and performance.
• Ensure on-time delivery of purchased parts from vendors to Rocket Lab.
• Own and manage business relationships with assigned suppliers.
• Run the RFQ process to secure competitive bids and achieve best pricing.
• Partner closely with Engineering teams and act as the primary contact for R&D order status.
• Keep material planners updated on purchase order status and expected delivery dates.
• Negotiate terms with suppliers to meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Maintain accurate purchase order data in the ERP system.
• Follow all health and safety policies, wear correct PPE, and report near misses and incidents promptly.

Skills

Sourcing & Negotiation

Vendor management

Purchasing processes

Organisational skills

Communication

Multi-tasking

Travel flexibility

Education

Degree in engineering, business, supply chain, or related field

MRP/ERP experience

Aerospace/high-growth manufacturing

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a proactive Buyer to secure our supply chain across launch vehicles, satellites, and subsystems. You will convert requisitions to POs, evaluate vendors, and ensure on-time delivery while managing supplier relationships and RFQs.

You will collaborate with Engineering on R&D orders and keep planners informed of PO status and delivery dates. This role requires a detail-oriented, proactive communicator who can navigate a fast-paced aerospace environment.