Space Hardware Supply Chain Program Lead

GITAI; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance: Platinum plan

401(k) with match

Equity eligibility

Relocation support

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

GITAI is seeking a procurement-focused Program Specialist to lead supplier-facing execution for space defense hardware programs. You will translate engineering and program needs into supplier actions, manage purchase orders, deliverables, and risk, and negotiate favorable terms to safeguard project success.

You will work closely with engineering, program leadership, and suppliers onsite in Torrance, CA, ensuring material readiness, compliance, and timely deliveries in a fast-paced startup

Qualifications

• Engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, operations management related degree required.
• Experience in procurement, supplier management, contracts, supply chain, or commercial execution in hardware/defense/ robotics environments.
• Experience in early-stage startups (Series B or earlier) preferred.
• Experience supporting U.S. government/defense/space programs and ITAR/EAR knowledge.
• Ability to translate technical program context into actionable supplier actions.

Responsibilities

• Own supplier-facing execution for space defense programs, including RFQs, POs, delivery tracking, and risk mitigation.
• Convert engineering needs into supplier actions while maintaining schedule control and technical ownership.
• Negotiate supplier terms (T&Cs, payment, delivery, cancellation, IP, warranty, and risk) to protect the program.
• Review quotes and proposals to identify risks before issues arise.
• Collaborate with engineering and program leadership to understand context and protect critical interests.
• Drive speed with suppliers while managing risk and escalation when needed.
• Support export-controlled and government program environments (ITAR/EAR awareness).
• Track flow-down requirements, deliverables, acceptance terms, and supplier commitments.

Skills

Procurement

Supplier management

Contract negotiation

ITAR/EAR knowledge

Defense/programs experience

Cross-functional collaboration

Quick decision making

Education

Engineering degree

Related field degree

Job description

GITAI is seeking a procurement-focused Program Specialist to lead supplier-facing execution for space defense hardware programs. You will translate engineering and program needs into supplier actions, manage purchase orders, deliverables, and risk, and negotiate favorable terms to safeguard project success.

You will work closely with engineering, program leadership, and suppliers onsite in Torrance, CA, ensuring material readiness, compliance, and timely deliveries in a fast-paced startup