Senior Buyer I

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.  SUPPLY CHAIN Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enables our technicians to put together our Electron rockets, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together, and are critical to our success. SENIOR BUYER I Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, Buyer's are responsible for placing all purchase orders for Rocket Lab. They support engineering R&D through production ramp, securing supply of the thousands of part we use to build launch vehicles, satellite systems, and their components. Buyers make daily decisions that are responsible for ensuring we meet our cost, quality, and delivery goals. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Accountable for sourcing materials after appropriately evaluating vendor capability, price, delivery needs, and vendor performance Accountable for the on-time-delivery of material to Rocket Lab Responsible for owning the business relationship with assigned suppliers Responsible for managing the RFQ process to secure competitive bids and ensure we are achieving best price for goods and services Tightly integrate with Engineering teams to meet their procurement requirements and act as primary point of contact for R&D order status Provide status to material planners on purchase orders and expected delivery dates Accountable for negotiating terms with suppliers to meet quality, cost and delivery requirements Accountable for maintaining purchase order data within our ERP system YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 5+ years of experience and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of work experience (9+ years total experience).  Proven ability to source, onboard, and negotiate pricing with suppliers Proven knowledge of purchasing processes. Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of time THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Proficient in MRP systems Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries Prior experience in rapid growth environment Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings Experience with AS9100, US export controls 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 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, 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.Base Pay Range (CA Only)$90,000—$110,000 USD  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, rathe