Strategic Buyer

Company Overview

At Performance Drone Works (PDW), we’re at the forefront of creating custom small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) for the modern warfighter. PDW is proudly American-owned, with all design, engineering, and manufacturing of our products taking place domestically.

Position Overview

PDW seeks a skilled Strategic Buyer to join our team, contributing to the next wave of system and tool development for our upcoming product lines. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in supporting our supply chain and manufacturing operations. The main duties will include managing and coordinating PDW’s hardware procurement and changing orders and supply plans. This role will play a critical part in interfacing between sales, procurement, and manufacturing to ensure PDW has the necessary material in place to seamlessly produce products.

The ideal candidate will have experience in purchasing and managing vendors of PCBAs, Harnesses, Long-lead Electronic Components, and Mechanical Components. This candidate should possess good time management skills, market research tactics, negotiation skills, and excellent written and verbal communication.

Core Responsibilities

The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, able to deal with problems on the fly, and delivers thoughtfully designed and highly adaptable systems.

• Serves as the SME for supply chain hardware sourcing, risk mitigation, and strategic purchasing.
• Management of CM business relationships for acquisition of harnesses, PCBAs, and hardware subassemblies.
• Lead hardware/EE oriented quality processes for acceptance testing in the supply chain team.
• Research and evaluate requisition services, equipment, and supplies based on cost, service, quality, and warranty.
• Prepare specifications and bid forms; assists with bidding processes, and coordinate bidding processes.
• Create and maintain work tools to aid in the procurement processes.
• Review sourcing changes and make recommendations.
• Conduct cost analysis for determination of fair and reasonable pricing; negotiate terms and conditions.
• Responsible for compliance activities on behalf of the company’s subcontractors and vendor base.
• Involved in process improvement initiatives to modernize and sustain the overall purchasing process.
• Continually purchase in line with MRP system and ensure lead-times are delivered upon as directed.
• Procure both production and overhead materials.
• Occasional stocking and shipping responsibilities.
• Responsible for expediting order to maintain production volumes.

Qualifications

• Must have experience with contract manufacturing, hardware/EE specialization, and training.
• Bachelor’s degree in business purchasing, supply chain management, or contracts management is preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience of production procurement or supply chain execution.
• Experience managing NPI and End of Life programs.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships within internal and external vendors or suppliers.
• Proficient in detailed parts management and report generation.
• Ability to coordinate with engineering teams to facilitate seamless transition between design, procurement, and quality assurance on time availability.
• Experience with inventory management systems a plus.
• NetSuite experience is highly preferred.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Compensation and Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Equity participation.
• A relaxed work environment that encourages individuality and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

Commitment to Inclusivity

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.