Senior Buyer

Job Title: Senior Buyer Job Description This Senior Buyer role leads sourcing, procurement, and supplier management for optics, optical assemblies, and precision electro‑optical components used in advanced aerospace and defense applications. You will manage high‑value, technically complex purchases, drive strategic supplier relationships, and ensure compliance with U.S. Government procurement regulations while partnering closely with engineering, quality, program management, contracts, and legal teams. Responsibilities Lead sourcing and purchasing activities for optical components, optical assemblies, and precision electro‑optical hardware, applying deep knowledge of optical materials, coatings, lenses, mirrors, sensors, and related manufacturing processes. Execute procurement activities for high‑value, technically complex components and assemblies in strict accordance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and internal company policies. Analyze MRP/ERP demand signals and issue RFQs, RFPs, and purchase orders to qualified suppliers to meet program and production requirements. Evaluate supplier quotations for technical compliance, cost, and delivery, and perform detailed cost and price analysis to support fact‑finding and negotiation efforts. Develop, strengthen, and maintain long‑term supplier relationships that support strategic sourcing initiatives and continuous improvement. Actively manage supplier performance related to delivery, quality, and responsiveness, and initiate corrective actions when performance does not meet expectations. Collaborate closely with engineering, quality, program management, contracts, and legal teams to ensure procurement activities align with program objectives and contract requirements. Support supplier risk assessments by identifying risks, contributing to mitigation strategies, and helping implement supplier improvement plans. Assist in audits and compliance reviews related to purchasing activities, documentation, and adherence to government and internal regulations. Lead or contribute to process improvement initiatives that increase procurement efficiency, reduce cycle times, and enhance data accuracy. Ensure accurate and timely input of procurement and supplier data into ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle, maintaining data integrity and traceability. Maintain purchasing records and documentation in accordance with internal procedures and applicable government regulations. Apply strong negotiation skills to manage contracts, resolve supplier performance issues, and secure favorable terms and conditions. Support build‑to‑print procurement activities by interpreting technical requirements and ensuring suppliers can meet detailed specifications. Essential Skills Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience. At least 5 years of DFAR/FAR purchasing experience within the aerospace and defense industry. Minimum of 5+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain, including at least 3 years in the aerospace and defense sector. Direct experience purchasing optical components, optical assemblies, or precision electro‑optical hardware. Strong working knowledge of FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and other U.S. Government procurement regulations. Experience working with MRP/ERP systems, such as SAP or Oracle, for demand planning and purchasing activities. Proven ability to negotiate effectively, manage contracts, and resolve supplier performance issues. Demonstrated experience in purchasing for build‑to‑print manufacturing environments. Background in aerospace and defense supply chain, including familiarity with advanced sensing, defense electronics, power systems, or next‑generation military technologies. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for working with internal stakeholders and external suppliers. U.S. citizenship required due to government contract requirements. Additional Skills & Qualifications Active U.S. Security Clearance at the Secret level or above is preferred. Professional certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), or equivalent supply management credentials. Familiarity with AS9100 standards and aerospace quality assurance processes. Experience in cost analysis and strategic sourcing, including long‑term agreements and supplier consolidation initiatives. Background supporting Department of Defense (DoD) programs and understanding related compliance requirements. Experience in aerospace defense procurement and supply chain management. Strong negotiation and relationship‑building skills with suppliers in high‑technology industries. Ability to work effectively in a remote, cross‑functional environment with geographically dispersed teams. Work Environment This position operates in a 100% remote work environment, offering flexibility to work from anywhere while supporting programs that run on East Coast hours. The role follows a 9/80 schedule, providing a compressed workweek structure. While not required, candidates who are able to occasionally visit office locations in Melbourne or Dallas may have opportunities for periodic on‑site collaboration. The organization combines the stability of an established global enterprise with the innovation and agility of a growing technology company. Employees work on cutting‑edge programs in advanced sensing, defense electronics, power systems, and next‑generation military technologies, collaborating with highly skilled professionals across the industry. The culture emphasizes career development, continuous learning, and internal advancement, creating an environment where team members can make a meaningful impact, grow professionally, and contribute to mission‑driven initiatives. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Melbourne, FL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $95000.00 - $110000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave,and community service hours. Workplace Type This is a fully remote position. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 2026. About Aston Carter Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.