Job Summary:The Principal Commodity Manager for Mechanical Components is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that align with Mercury Systems' business objectives. This role leads strategic supplier relationships, drives cost optimization, ensures supply continuity, and supports new product introduction for mechanical commodities such as machined parts, castings, sheet metal, fasteners, metal assemblies, and related hardware used in high-reliability aerospace and defense products.
Job Responsibilities:- Develop and execute long-term commodity strategies for mechanical components, including global sourcing, supplier rationalization, and risk mitigation.
- Serve as the primary owner of supplier relationships for assigned commodities, leading performance management, quarterly business reviews, and strategic development activities.
- Negotiate complex contracts, pricing agreements, and long-term supply arrangements to meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
- Analyze market trends, supply base capabilities, cost drivers, and emerging technologies to ensure competitive advantage.
- Partner closely with Engineering, Program Management, Operations, and Quality to support new product introduction and early supplier involvement.
- Drive cost-reduction initiatives through value engineering, should-cost analysis, and productivity projects.
- Resolve supply issues proactively to ensure on-time delivery and maintain production continuity.
- Maintain compliance with all regulatory, cybersecurity, and defense-industry procurement requirements (e.g., FAR/DFARS).
- Lead cross-functional teams in supplier selection, qualification, and performance improvement initiatives.
- Provide mentorship and guidance to junior commodity managers and buyers as needed.
Required Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
- Typically requires 7+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, commodity management, or supply chain within aerospace, defense, or high-technology manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of mechanical components and manufacturing processes (machining, casting, sheet metal fabrication, plating/coatings, tolerances).
- Proven experience negotiating and managing contracts with complex technical suppliers.
- Ability to analyze cost structures and conduct should-cost modeling.
- Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances if required.
Preferred Qualifications:- Experience with defense industry compliance (FAR, DFARS, ITAR).
- Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems such as SAP or Oracle.
- Professional certifications (CPSM, CPIM, PMP, or similar).
- Background supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) or engineering programs.
Click here read about our recent press release.
