The Role: Buyer

The Buyer plays a pivotal role in driving our mission forward by executing purchase orders and securing the critical machined parts and raw materials that power our advanced engines and components. This position partners closely with Engineering from early R&D through full production ramp, ensuring we have the right materials at the right time to accelerate innovation. In this role, you will make high impact decisions that directly enable the organization to achieve ambitious targets for cost, quality, and delivery, fueling the momentum behind our most complex and transformative programs.

What You'll Get to Do

• Evaluate supplier capabilities, pricing, delivery commitments, and performance to effectively source required materials.
• Maintain precise, real-time purchasing data within existing systems while supporting the team's transition to scalable platforms that will enable the organization's production growth.
• Ensure timely delivery of all materials to the organization.
• Manage and maintain strong business relationships with assigned suppliers.
• Oversee the RFQ process to obtain competitive bids and secure optimal pricing for goods and services.
• Partner closely with Engineering teams to fulfill procurement requirements and serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders regarding order status.
• Provide timely updates to stakeholders on purchase order progress and anticipated delivery dates.
• Lead opportunities to negotiate terms with suppliers to meet quality, cost, and delivery objectives.

What You Have

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a procurement role, including at least 3 years within the aerospace or manufacturing sectors.
• Strong knowledge of machining processes, including CNC milling, CNC turning, multi axis machining, complex assemblies, special processes, and associated inspection requirements.
• Experience sourcing tight tolerance, low volume/high mix, prototype, development, and production machined components.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to verify supplier capability.
• Demonstrated success in sourcing, onboarding, and negotiating pricing with suppliers.
• Solid understanding of purchasing processes, with the ability to apply systematic thinking to manual workflow.
• Effective communication skills for conveying information verbally and in writing to colleagues, vendors, and customers.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate effectively in environments with ambiguous or evolving requirements.

What Will Set You Apart

• Proficient in using MRP systems.
• Experience within aerospace, automotive, or other innovative manufacturing industries.
• Background in operating within rapid-growth environments.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with AS9100 standards and U.S. export control requirements.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines.
• ASCM/APICS certifications (CPIM and/or CSCP)

Location: On-site in Houston, TX

Benefits: Venus Aerospace employee benefits include a 401(k) plan, stock options, and medical benefits, including dental and vision. We have a flex-Friday flexible schedule, unlimited PTO, and receive professional development opportunities.

ITAR Requirements

This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be able to meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State). You can learn more about ITARhere.