Senior Buyer

Stark Aerospace, Inc.; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 85,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Stark Aerospace, Inc. seeks a Senior Buyer to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management in the aerospace and defense sector in Columbus, MS.

You will drive cost reductions, manage supplier performance, and ensure on-time material availability for critical programs. The role requires extensive experience with ITAR/DFARS/FAR compliance, ERP/MRP systems, and strong negotiation skills to meet business objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; Master’s preferred for advanced roles.
• 5+ years of procurement experience in aerospace/defense.
• Deep knowledge of ITAR, DFARS, FAR regulations.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier management.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (SAP/Oracle or similar).
• APICS or ISM certification (CPSM/CPIM) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing and supplier management to meet cost, quality, and lead-time targets.
• Manage end-to-end procurement, RFQs, POs, and inventory optimization with cross-functional teams.
• Ensure compliance with ITAR, DFARS, FAR; maintain records and support import/export processes; mentor junior staff.

Skills

Procurement experience

ERP/MRP systems

Negotiation

Contract management

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Master's degree (plus)

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

Job Title: Senior Buyer - Aerospace & Defense

Location: Columbus, MS

Position Type: Full-time, Permanent

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Buyer to join our procurement team in the aerospace and defense sector. The Senior Buyer will play a crucial role in managing strategic sourcing, supplier relationships, and purchasing activities to support our company’s objectives in quality, delivery, and cost-effectiveness. This role requires a deep understanding of aerospace and defense industry requirements, including compliance, quality standards, and risk management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Management: Identify, assess, and qualify suppliers to ensure alignment with company objectives, compliance with industry standards, and delivery reliability. Develop and implement sourcing strategies to optimize costs, ensure quality, and mitigate risks. Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions to secure favorable terms that meet the company’s cost, quality, and lead-time requirements. Maintain and strengthen relationships with key suppliers, ensuring alignment on strategic goals. Strong cost reduction background in material, component, sub‑assemblies, Design to specification items.
• Procurement and Inventory Management: Manage the end-to-end procurement process for assigned categories, including RFQs, PO generation, and order tracking. Optimize inventory levels to meet demand forecasts while minimizing excess and obsolescence. Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Engineering, Quality, Production) to ensure material availability and timely delivery. Monitor and report on supplier performance, conducting regular reviews and taking corrective action as needed.
• Compliance and Documentation: Ensure all procurement activities comply with regulatory standards, including ITAR, DFARS, FAR, and other relevant aerospace and defense regulations. Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and other important data for auditing and reporting purposes. Manage import/export compliance requirements, collaborating with logistics teams to ensure smooth flow of goods. Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings within the procurement function. Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and new technologies that could benefit sourcing and procurement activities. Lead and mentor junior members of the purchasing team, providing guidance in best practices, problem‑solving, and career development.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• 5+ years of procurement experience, preferably within the aerospace or defense sector.
• In‑depth knowledge of industry regulations, including ITAR, DFARS, and FAR.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier management, especially with highly regulated or high‑specification suppliers.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems; familiarity with SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms is preferred.
• APICS or ISM certification (such as CPSM or CPIM) is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional team environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.