Job Title: Buyer/Procurement Specialist

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Buyer/Procurement Specialist to join our procurement team in the aerospace and defense sector. The Buyer/Procurement Specialist will play a crucial role in managing strategic sourcing, supplier relationships, and purchasing activities to support our company’s objectives in quality, delivery, and cost-effectiveness. This role requires a deep understanding of aerospace and defense industry requirements, including compliance, quality standards, and risk management.

ResponsibilitiesIdentify, assess, and qualify suppliers to ensure alignment with company objectives, compliance with industry standards, and delivery requirements.Develop and implement sourcing strategies to optimize costs, ensure quality, and mitigate risks.Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions to secure favorable terms that meet the company’s cost, quality, and lead-time requirements.Maintain and strengthen relationships with key suppliers, ensuring alignment on strategic initiatives.Manage the end-to-end procurement process for assigned categories, including RFQs, PO generation, and order tracking.Optimize inventory levels to meet demand forecasts while minimizing excess and obsolescence.Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Engineering, Quality, Production) to ensure material availability and timely delivery.Monitor and report on supplier performance, conducting regular reviews and taking corrective action as needed.Ensure all procurement activities comply with regulatory standards, including ITAR, DFARS, FAR, and other relevant aerospace and defense regulations.Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and other important data for auditing and reporting purposes.Manage import/export compliance requirements, collaborating with logistics teams to ensure smooth flow of goods.Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings within the procurement function.Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and new technologies that could benefit sourcing and procurement activities.Lead and mentor junior members of the purchasing team, providing guidance in best practices, problem-solving, and career development.Essential Skills5+ years of experience in procurement, particularly in the aerospace and defense sector.Deep understanding of ITAR, DFARS, and FAR regulations.Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems.Strong negotiation, sourcing, and supplier management skills.Bachelor's degree in a related field.Additional Skills & QualificationsCertifications such as APICS, CPSM, or CPIM are highly desirable.Proven history in cost reduction for materials, components, and sub-assemblies.Experience with strategic sourcing and inventory management.Work Environment

This role is based onsite in an aerospace manufacturing environment in Columbus, MS. The work schedule is Monday to Thursday, providing a four-day work week.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.