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Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems. The Supply Chain team manages the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business, with direct impact on rocket and satellite program success.
As a Sourcing Specialist II based at Rocket Lab's Long Beach headquarters, you will be responsible for placing all purchase orders and securing supply of thousands of parts used to build launch vehicles and satellite systems. You'll support engineering R&D through production ramp, making daily decisions that ensure the company meets cost, quality, and delivery goals.
Key responsibilities include:
- Evaluating vendor capability, price, delivery needs, and performance to source materials
- Ensuring on-time delivery of materials to Rocket Lab
- Owning business relationships with assigned suppliers
- Managing the RFQ process to secure competitive bids and achieve best pricing
- Integrating tightly with Engineering teams to meet procurement requirements and serve as primary point of contact for R&D order status
- Providing status updates to material planners on purchase orders and expected delivery dates
- Negotiating supplier terms to meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements
- Maintaining purchase order data within the ERP system
You'll bring 2+ years of sourcing experience plus a bachelor's degree (or 6+ years total work experience), proven ability to source and negotiate with suppliers, and strong knowledge of purchasing processes. Domestic and international travel up to 10% is required.
Desirable qualifications include MRP system proficiency, aerospace/automotive/manufacturing industry experience, rapid growth environment exposure, ability to read engineering drawings, familiarity with AS9100 and US export controls, and strong organizational, problem-solving, communication, and multitasking skills in fast-paced environments.
Compensation includes competitive base pay, company stock as part of total compensation, industry-leading ESPP with 15% discount, comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, paid time off, 401(k) with match, paid parental leave, subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers, and employee discounts.
