Purchasing Manager (Defense)

TL;DR

Purchasing Manager (Defense/Aerospace): Leading and overseeing all procurement activities for government and defense contracts with an accent on FAR/DFARS and ITAR compliance. Focus on establishing procurement strategies, managing a team of buyers, and mitigating supply chain risks for next-generation UAS flight systems.

Location: San Luis Obispo, California (Must be eligible to work in the US)

Salary: $125,000 - $155,000 USD

Company

hirify.global is developing cutting-edge autonomous unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for government and defense applications.

What you will do

• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with government contract requirements and organizational objectives.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of buyers and procurement professionals.
• Ensure full adherence to FAR/DFARS, ITAR, Buy American, and cybersecurity requirements (CMMC/NIST).
• Oversee supplier performance metrics (OTD, quality, cost) and lead resolution of nonconformances.
• Conduct cost and price analysis to ensure fair pricing and lead supplier negotiations.
• Partner with engineering, quality, and finance to align procurement with production schedules.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of procurement experience in a government defense contracting environment.
• 3+ years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong working knowledge of FAR/DFARS and ITAR compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Unanet, SAP, Oracle).
• Must be able to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States via E-Verify.

Nice to have

• Experience supporting aerospace or defense manufacturing environments.
• MBA degree.
• Familiarity with AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Active or previously held security clearance.
• CPSM, CPIM, or related professional certification.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401k with company match.
• 4 weeks of paid time off per year and 12 annual company holidays.
• Opportunity to work in an innovative environment on technology shaping the future of defense and aerospace.