Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:Benchmark Space Systems, a leader in small satellite propulsion systems and in-space mobility services, is looking for a highly detail-oriented
Development Buyer to join our team and take ownership of development buying.
In this role, you would need to navigate evolving requirements, support engineering teams, and ensure timely delivery of critical materials for design and testing milestones for research and development activities.
This is an on-site role at our Pleasanton, CA office.
Measurements of Success/Primary Job Responsibilities:At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast-paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to solve problems, not be afraid to ask questions and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, there are primary job responsibilities and measurements of success for this position, which are:
- Partner closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Supply Chain to support development builds and NPI (New Product Introduction) activities.
- Source and procure prototype and low-volume hardware, ensuring alignment with program schedules and technical requirements.
- Evaluate purchase requisitions, lead RFQs/RFPs, and manage supplier selection based on cost, quality, delivery, and technical capability.
- Manage supplier relationships, including performance tracking (delivery, quality, responsiveness) and issue resolution.
- Identify and onboard new suppliers to support evolving product design and technology needs.
- Coordinate with suppliers on lead times, design changes, and engineering updates during development cycles.
- Track and communicate material status to internal stakeholders, ensuring transparency on risks and schedule impacts.
- Support make vs. buy decisions and cost reduction initiatives early in the design phase.
- Collaborate with Quality to ensure compliance with aerospace standards and internal requirements.
- Assist in transition from development to production (handoff to production procurement and supply base scaling).
Education and/or Experience:- Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, engineering, business, or a related field.
- 3-5 years of experience in procurement, sourcing or supply chain roles, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.
- Strong experience with supplier relationships, contract management, and sourcing.
- U.S. Person Requirement: Due to the nature of the work and access to export-controlled information, applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. export control laws. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, or similar).
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
- Thorough understanding of materials and supplies used in the company.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Acts as a proactive problem-solver, not just a transactional buyer.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
What makes you stand out:- Master's degree in operations management, supply chain, engineering technology, or a related field.
- Strong customer service orientation and ability to represent the company professionally during vendor or customer visits and program interactions.
- Familiarity with AS9100 / aerospace quality systems.
- Experience working with space systems, propulsion, or highly engineered components.
- Background in supplier development or early-stage supply base creation.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering BOMs and revision-controlled documentation.
Benefits:- Health insurance (100% coverage for individuals, 80% for families).
- Vision & Dental Insurance.
- Company paid life, AD&D, and disability insurances.
- Voluntary Life Insurance.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- 401(k) with employer match.
- Flexible schedule.
- Unlimited vacation.
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:- Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 50 lbs. occasionally (e.g., boxes, components, facility supplies).
- Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, reach, and kneel.
- Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer or completing documentation work.
