Procurement Specialist

About ModalAI ModalAI® accelerates autonomy by providing innovators with U.S.-manufactured robot and drone perception and communications systems. As a Blue UAS Framework manufacturer, we develop best-in-class autopilot and computing hardware to enable the next generation of smaller, smarter, and safer drones and robots. Robot integrators, ranging from enterprise to government, use our autopilots to accelerate autonomy across several industries. Our team of industry-leading experts in software, hardware, and mechanical engineering is passionate about technology and is shaping the future of U.S.-based drone and robot autonomy. About the Role ModalAI is looking to fill an immediate opening for a full-time Procurement Specialist at our San Diego headquarters. The Procurement Specialist supports the purchasing of components, materials, equipment and services that keep ModalAI's engineering and production running. This role manages day-to-day vendor relationships, gathers and compares quotes, issues purchase orders, and tracks orders through delivery, partnering with Engineering, Production and Finance to get the right parts at the right cost and on time. With the designing and manufacturing of hardware in-house, this role supports purchasing for electronic components, printed circuit boards and assemblies, mechanical and machined parts, lab and test equipment, and production supplies, while helping maintain the sourcing standards required of a Blue UAS Framework manufacturer. Essential Functions: Quote Gathering and Sourcing: Issue requests for proposals/quotes based on technical drawings, bills of materials, and specifications. Gather, analyze, and evaluate supplier proposals covering pricing, fulfillment timelines, minimum order quantities, and payment terms. Research and vet secondary suppliers for critical path, end-of-life, or single-origin parts. Assist in contract rate negotiations to secure volume discounts and blanket purchasing agreements. Purchasing and Order Management: Generate and distribute purchase orders derived from authorized requests and material requirements planning. Verify order confirmations, unit pricing, and target arrival timelines directly with vendors. Expedite overdue and urgent shipments to mitigate potential disruptions in manufacturing and development. Collaborate with inventory teams and Finance to align purchase documentation, packing slips, and supplier billings. Cross-Functional Support: Collaborate with Engineering regarding prototype purchasing, initial part onboarding, and design updates. Coordinate with Production and Inventory teams to align procurement priorities with operational timelines. Promptly report supply chain bottlenecks, extended lead times, and potential stockouts to key internal partners. Compliance: Ensure procurement activities comply with Blue UAS Framework, NDAA Section 848, and origin sourcing mandates. Adhere to ITAR and EAR regulations when transmitting technical documentation to vendor partners. Gather and archive vendor compliance records, including certificates of conformance, RoHS, and REACH attestations. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate procurement records, pricing history, and delivery timelines. Support the continuous improvement of internal procurement protocols and operational standards. Non-Essential Job Functions: Support the procurement of materials, equipment, and logistics for company-wide gatherings and all-hands events. Assess and propose enhancements to sourcing systems, vendor platforms, and operational workflows. Qualifications: Required: Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or equivalent practical background. Minimum 2 years of experience in purchasing, buying, or procurement roles, ideally within a manufacturing setting. Demonstrated background generating purchase requisitions and tracking orders. Experience working with an ERP/MRP system. Proven capability to solicit, analyze, and evaluate supplier cost proposals…

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