Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer

Wichita, KS

$70,000 - $100,000

About the Role

We’re looking for a Senior Buyer who can operate beyond purchase orders. This role is about ownership of suppliers, cost structures, risk, and delivery performance. You’ll be expected to challenge vendors, influence internal stakeholders, and bring discipline to procurement in a high-spec aerospace & defence environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end procurement of aerospace components, raw materials, and services
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with cost, quality, and delivery targets
• Lead supplier negotiations (pricing, contracts, lead times, and terms)
• Evaluate and onboard new suppliers; continuously assess existing supplier performance
• Drive cost reduction initiatives without compromising compliance or quality
• Manage MRP signals, demand fluctuations, and inventory optimization
• Mitigate supply chain risks (single-source exposure, geopolitical, capacity constraints)
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to support NPI and ongoing programs
• Ensure compliance with aerospace standards, regulatory requirements, and internal controls

Requirements

• 5–10+ years of procurement experience, ideally in aerospace or a similarly regulated manufacturing environment
• Proven track record of negotiating contracts and delivering measurable cost savings
• Strong understanding of supply chain risk, supplier management, and procurement strategy
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar)
• Ability to read technical drawings and understand engineering requirements
• Commercially sharp—comfortable pushing back on both suppliers and internal stakeholders
• Data-driven decision-making mindset

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AS9100 or equivalent aerospace quality standards
• Background in machining, composites, or precision manufacturing supply chains
• CIPS, CPSM, or equivalent certification
• Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI) programs

What Success Looks Like

• Suppliers deliver on time, at cost, and to spec—consistently
• You reduce dependency on high-risk suppliers
• Procurement becomes proactive, not reactive
• Engineering and operations trust your judgment

What We Offer

• Competitive salary + performance bonus
• Pension scheme
• Private healthcare
• Career progression in a growing aerospace environment