Senior Buyer

TL;DR

Senior Buyer (Supply Chain): Driving supply chain initiatives supporting new product introductions in optics and defense manufacturing with an accent on supplier sourcing, procurement, and cross-functional collaboration. Focus on negotiating contracts, optimizing ERP parameters, monitoring deliveries, and resolving supply issues under ITAR compliance.

Location: Onsite in Boulder, CO, United States. ITAR compliance required. Visa sponsorship not available.

Salary: $85,000–$115,000 annually

Company

Global technology leader delivering photonic solutions for biomedical, semiconductor, industrial, defense, and aerospace sectors with facilities specializing in ultra-precision optical components and coatings.

What you will do

• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and quality teams to procure materials meeting specifications and production schedules.
• Source suppliers, request quotes, negotiate pricing and contracts, and select optimal vendors.
• Manage purchase orders, ERP data accuracy, inventory control, and on-time deliveries.
• Monitor shortages, resolve delays with suppliers, and report to stakeholders.
• Act as interface for technical and quality discussions; process returns of non-conforming products.
• Define supply chain processes for new programs and support ERP transition to SAP.

Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in Supply Chain, Purchasing, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred; 5+ years purchasing experience.
• Expertise in MRP systems for inventory and scheduling optimization.
• Skills in sourcing, negotiation, supplier management, and ERP (SAP a plus).
• Advanced Excel, analytical skills, problem-solving, and communication.
• Knowledge of production operations and inventory planning; ITAR familiarity a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with minimal supervision; up to 10% travel.

Nice to have

• APICS certifications.
• Defense/optics experience and low-volume purchasing.
• Project management and leadership experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Benefits start day 1: medical, dental, vision, 401K, self-managed vacation, holiday pay, paid maternity/paternity leave, tuition reimbursement, short/long-term disability.
• Cross-training and team support in a collaborative environment.
• Continuous improvement initiatives and special projects.