Buyer

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

As a Buyer, you will support manufacturing and production operations by managing procurement activities, coordinating with suppliers, and ensuring materials and services meet quality, cost, delivery, and customer requirements. You will work closely with Program Managers, production teams, and suppliers to maintain material availability, support manufacturing schedules, and improve procurement processes. Your contributions will help strengthen supplier performance, maintain product conformity, and support continuous improvement within Karman's Quality Management System (QMS).

Responsibilities

• Manages procurement activities to ensure materials, hardware, and services meet production schedules, quality standards, and customer requirements.
• Develops and executes procurement plans that support short- and long-term manufacturing and operational objectives.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with key suppliers to support reliable material availability and procurement performance.
• Evaluates and manages supplier performance to achieve competitive pricing, consistent quality, and on-time delivery.
• Collaborates with Program Managers and production leaders to coordinate purchasing requirements and support manufacturing schedules.
• Reviews purchased products and services to ensure alignment with customer specifications, product conformity, and performance requirements.
• Implements and follows procurement procedures in accordance with Aerospace Standard (AS) 9100 requirements and company quality policies.
• Evaluates procurement processes, identifies opportunities for improvement, and implements changes that support operational efficiency.
• Supports Quality Management System (QMS) requirements, including reporting, recordkeeping, product safety, and ethical business practices.

Required Qualifications

• Four-year degree or equivalent in machine shop, metal fabrication, or a related field.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment and/or related training.
• Knowledge of manufacturing materials, hardware, specifications, and processes, including machining, heat treating, and plating.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with suppliers and internal customers.
• Ability to follow Quality Management System (QMS) procedures for reporting, recordkeeping, and work instructions.
• Ability to understand, maintain awareness of, and comply with applicable customer requirements and changes.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
• This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance

Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage

Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.