Buyer

Vast is looking for a Buyer, reporting to the Director of Supply Chain, to support the development of the systems required to design and build artificial-gravity, human-rated space stations. This is a full-time, exempt position located in Long Beach, CA.

Responsibilities

Support end-to-end sourcing activities for assigned commodities/categories, from demand identification through supplier selection and purchase order placement

Conduct ongoing market research to identify potential suppliers/subcontractors, assess capabilities, and support RFQ/RFP execution

Experience sourcing tight-tolerance, low-volume/high-mix, prototype, development, or production hardware

Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to ensure suppliers have the necessary capabilities

Develop the supply base, optimize the supply base to meet long-term program needs.

Lead source selection, negotiations, and contracting strategies aligned to program, customer, product, and in-service needs

Own/maintain sourcing documentation, including RFQs/RFPs, bid analyses, supplier records, and purchase orders in ERP systems

Track supply and demand signals and coordinate with planning/program teams to support schedule alignment and on-time delivery

Partner with quality, engineering, manufacturing, finance, legal/contracts, and program management to support supplier performance (quality, delivery, cost)

Support supplier performance management and continuous improvement efforts (QCD), including corrective actions and recovery plans as needed

Identify cost and lead time opportunities through basic cost analysis, pricing reviews, and value-focused sourcing recommendations

Operate effectively in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities, high accountability, and cross-functional collaboration across all levels

Minimum Qualifications (Level I)

0–2 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or a related role (internships/co-ops acceptable)

Basic understanding of procurement processes (RFQ, PO lifecycle, supplier communication, lead times, Incoterms a plus)

Strong communication skills (written and verbal) and attention to detail

Minimum Qualifications (Level II)

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)

2–4+ years of experience in sourcing/procurement, supply chain, or manufacturing operations

Experience supporting supplier selection and RFQ/RFP cycles, negotiations, and PO placement

Exposure to manufacturing and/or aerospace supply chains strongly preferred

Preferred Skills & Experience

Experience creating/updating RFPs/RFQs, purchase orders (POs), and work orders within an ERP (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, etc.)

Ability to analyze quotes and build basic cost/price comparisons; familiarity with BOMs

Comfortable managing multiple priorities with ambiguous inputs and shifting timelines

Strong organizational skills and ability to make sound decisions with limited information

Team-oriented and able to collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, quality, ops, planning, contracts/legal, and finance

Comfortable working in a high-intensity environment supporting critical mission milestones

Additional Requirements

Ability to travel up to 20%

Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends as needed to support critical mission milestones

Pay Range: California

$73,964—$105,051 USD