Rocket Lab · 11 hours ago
Manager, Purchasing
Silver Spring, MD
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$100K/yr - $145K/yr
8+ years expRocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and spacecraft design. The Purchasing Manager will build and manage the direct material procurement team to support the launch and space systems, focusing on raw material purchases and developing a global commodity strategy.
AerospaceManufacturingSoftwareSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Manage a highly effective procurement team focused on the raw material commodity (aluminum/composites/printed) for our Launch and Space programs
Accountable for the procurement of direct materials in support of production material demand and rapid engineering development
Responsible for developing a global commodity strategy to create best in class cost, quality, and delivery goals in support of Rocket Lab’s growth
Negotiate pricing on a first principles basis for purchased material cost and create a bottom-up cost model to influence engineering design direction
Operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships. Conduct supplier performance management including dispute resolution, scorecards, and quarterly business reviews
Partner with suppliers and internal departments to develop an integrated sourcing and procurement strategy supporting cost optimization, quality improvements, and business growth
Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to negotiate and resolve scheduling conflicts, inventory levels, material shortages, delivery requirements, cost improvements, quality improvements, and other material issues
Oversee supplier performance, including quality, delivery (OTD), and pricing
Function as a key liaison between the Supply Chain team and internal stakeholders including Business unit leadership, Engineering, Accounting, and Manufacturing
Ensure ERP procurement and planning data accuracy (ex. safety stock, lead times, ROP, and EOQ) and meta data integrity
Conduct comprehensive market research and scouting to uncover new capabilities and potential partnerships that support business unit goals
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, supply chain, or other relevant fields and 8+ years of related experience in purchasing, with management experience in fast-paced environment
Work in a cross functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functional groups to achieve company-wide goals
Proven ability to source, onboard, and contract pricing agreements with suppliers
Proven ability to define team strategy and build operating plans to achieve vision and long-term goals
Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of time
Preferred
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
Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries
Prior experience in rapid growth environment
Experience with AS9100, US export controls (ITAR and EAR)
Benefits
Top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option
Dental and vision coverage
3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick leave per year
11 paid holidays per year
Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts
Paid parental leave
Disability insurance
Life insurance
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match
Discounted employee stock purchase program
Flex schedule
Free breakfast and lunch catered 2x/week
Free snacks/drinks
Company
Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is an aerospace company that provides launch services, spacecraft design, and manufacturing of satellite components.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$1.98BKey Investors
Canadian Space AgencyU.S. Department of CommerceTrinity Capital
2025-12-09Grant
2025-09-15Post Ipo Equity· $750M
2024-11-25Grant· $23.9M
Leadership Team
Adam Spice
Chief Financial Officer
Frank Klein
Chief Operations Officer
Recent News
The Motley Fool
2026-02-07
The Motley Fool
2026-02-06
Company data provided by crunchbase