Job Description:Job Title: Sourcing Manager, RoboticsLocation: Fremont, CA On-site Role OverviewNextpower is seeking an experienced
Robotics Sourcing Manager to lead sourcing and supplier development for our inspection robot product line. This role is responsible for end-to-end component sourcing, supplier strategy, and the development and management of contract manufacturers from early build through volume production.
The ideal candidate has strong experience in
electromechanical hardware sourcing,
contract manufacturing, and
new product introduction (NPI) in robotics, automotive, aerospace, or related hardware industries.
Key ResponsibilitiesSourcing & Supplier Management- Own sourcing strategy for mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, and off-the-shelf components used in inspection robots
- Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers for critical components including motors, gearboxes, sensors, PCBs, batteries, enclosures, and custom machined parts
- Negotiate pricing, lead times, tooling, MOQs, and long-term supply agreements
- Manage supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery, and scalability
Contract Manufacturer Development- Select, develop, and manage contract manufacturers for prototype, pilot, and volume production
- Lead RFQ processes and cost modeling for full system builds and sub-assemblies
- Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure DFM/DFA readiness
- Support production ramp, capacity planning, and supply chain risk mitigation
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Work closely with hardware engineering during design phases to influence component selection and cost targets
- Partner with operations, manufacturing, quality, and finance teams to align sourcing decisions with business goals
- Support NPI builds, ECOs, and transition from prototype to production
Cost, Risk, and Supply Chain Strategy- Drive cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, alternate sourcing, and design optimization
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including single-source dependencies and long lead-time components
- Develop long-term sourcing roadmaps aligned with product and volume forecasts
QualificationsRequired- 8+ years of experience in sourcing, supply chain, or procurement for hardware products
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, Operations, or a related technical field
- Hands-on experience sourcing components for electromechanical or robotic systems
- Proven experience selecting and managing contract manufacturers
- Strong understanding of NPI, prototype builds, and production ramp
- Experience negotiating supplier contracts and managing BOM costs
- Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering and manufacturing teams
Preferred- Experience in robotics, automation, automotive, aerospace, or industrial equipment
- Familiarity with PCBAs, motors, sensors, batteries, and precision mechanical components
- Experience supporting production in North America and Asia
- Background in supply chain risk management for early-stage or scaling hardware companies
Nextpower offers a comprehensive benefits package. We provide health care coverage, dental and vision, 401(K) participation including company matching, company paid holidays with unlimited paid time off, generous discretionary company bonuses, life and disability protection and more. Employees in certain positions may be eligible for stock compensation. All plans are in accordance with relevant plan documents. For more information on Nextpower's benefits please view our company website at www.Nextpower.com
Pay is based on market location and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education and other job-related reasons. The annual salary range for this position is 160,000.00 to 170,000.00 (Applicable to California)
