Manager, Purchasing (Raw Materials)

Rocket Lab; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in aerospace is seeking a Manager of Direct Procurement to lead a dynamic team focused on raw materials for innovative launch and space systems. This role involves strategic sourcing, supplier management, and developing procurement strategies to support rapid engineering development. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating strong leadership and negotiation skills while managing supplier relationships. Join a pioneering team dedicated to making significant contributions to space exploration and technology, where your expertise will be valued and impactful.

Benefits

Top tier medical HMO, PPO

100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan

Dental and vision coverage

3 weeks paid vacation

5 days sick leave per year

11 paid holidays per year

Flexible spending accounts

Paid parental leave

Disability insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in purchasing with management experience.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams and achieve company goals.

Responsibilities

• Manage procurement team for raw materials in launch and space programs.
• Develop global commodity strategy for cost, quality, and delivery.

Skills

Team Leadership

Negotiation Skills

Supplier Relationship Management

Strategic Planning

Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Business

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain

Tools

AS9100

ERP Systems

Job description

Manager, Direct Procurement (Raw Materials)

Long Beach, California, United States

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

MANAGER, DIRECT PROCUREMENT (RAW MATERIALS)

Based on site at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Manager of Direct Procurement will be responsible for building and managing our direct material procurement team for our headquarter operations. The procurement team supports direct material purchasing for launch and space systems, from R&D and new product introduction through production ramp. We are growing fast, and our ideal candidate will have experience in building and leading a high performing team. This role will report to the Senior Director of Direct Procurement. This particular role will support all raw material purchases for Rocket Lab programs. The scope will cover but not be limited to, aluminum, composites, and our 3D printed materials.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Manage a highly effective procurement team focused on the raw material commodity (aluminum/composites/printed) for our Launch and Space programs
• Accountable for the procurement of direct materials in support of production material demand and rapid engineering development
• Responsible for developing a global commodity strategy to create best in class cost, quality, and delivery goals in support of Rocket Lab’s growth
• Negotiate pricing on a first principles basis for purchased material cost and create a bottom-up cost model to influence engineering design direction
• Operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships. Conduct supplier performance management including dispute resolution, scorecards, and quarterly business reviews

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, supply chain, or other relevant fields and 8+ years of related experience in purchasing, with management experience in fast-paced environment
• Work in a cross functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functional groups to achieve company-wide goals
• Proven ability to source, onboard, and contract pricing agreements with suppliers
• Proven ability to define team strategy and build operating plans to achieve vision and long-term goals
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of time.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment and to multiple deadlines.
• Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries
• Prior experience in rapid growth environment
• Experience with AS9100, US export controls (ITAR and EAR)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, childcare concierge, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.