Job Title: Senior BuyerJob 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.