Senior Buyer

Department: Operations
Reports To: Supply Chain Manager
Location: Farmington, Connecticut
Compensation: $100,000 (commensurate with experience)

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and highly analytical Senior Buyer to join our Operations team within a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for managing complex procurement activities, supporting new product introductions, developing supplier partnerships, and ensuring full compliance with aerospace regulatory requirements including EAR, ITAR, and DFARS.

The ideal candidate brings strong supply chain expertise, aerospace regulatory knowledge, and the ability to drive process improvements while supporting production readiness and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Issue, manage, and track purchase orders for raw materials, outside special services (OSS), and production-related materials.

• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships while negotiating pricing, lead times, and terms.

• Support New Product Introductions (NPI) through supplier selection, supply chain development, and readiness planning.

• Assist in the development and documentation of processes, including customer approvals where required.

• Conduct process capability evaluations and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) assessments.

• Plan and execute rate readiness strategies to support production scaling.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain.

• Develop and implement business models for insourcing initiatives.

• Procure capital equipment and machinery required for insourced special processes, ensuring proper approvals.

• Maintain and manage an approved supplier list for customer-controlled and regulated processes.

• Ensure compliance with aerospace regulatory frameworks including EAR, ITAR, DFARS, and customer-specific requirements.

• Support audits and maintain documentation in alignment with quality standards.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA) from an accredited college or university.

Experience

• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive supply chain or purchasing experience.

• Aerospace manufacturing experience strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated experience operating within regulated environments (EAR, ITAR, DFARS).

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution abilities.

• Exceptional organizational skills with high attention to detail.

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Proven ability to manage and develop supply chain partnerships.

• Strong understanding of aerospace regulatory requirements and quality systems.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP/MRP systems.

Training Requirements

• Employee Orientation

• Annual Safety Training

• Annual Quality Procedures Training

• Job-Specific Skills Training

• Training as mandated by the State of Connecticut

Working Conditions

• Work environment includes both office and manufacturing settings.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required in manufacturing areas:

  • Safety glasses with side shields

  • Safety shoes

• Maximum lift requirement: 15 lbs.

Why Join Us

This is a key role within a growing aerospace organization where the Senior Buyer will directly impact operational performance, supplier strategy, and production readiness. The position offers strong visibility within Operations and the opportunity to contribute to strategic supply chain initiatives.

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