Senior Buyer

Position: Senior Buyer

Department: Supply Chain / Procurement

Location: Santa Ana, CA 

FLSA Status: Exempt, Full-Time

Job Summary: 

The Senior Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, and services to support Brandywine Communications’ aerospace and defense manufacturing operations. This role ensures supplier compliance with quality, cost, and delivery requirements while maintaining adherence to government regulations and company policies. The Senior Buyer collaborates closely with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Contracts teams to manage supplier relationships and drive strategic procurement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities: 

· Source and procure materials, components, and services in accordance with production schedules and project requirements.

· Evaluate supplier capabilities and performance; conduct supplier audits and manage approved vendor lists.

· Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules to optimize cost and ensure on-time delivery.

· Issue and manage purchase orders; monitor order status and resolve discrepancies or delays.

· Collaborate with internal stakeholders to forecast demand and align procurement strategies.

· Ensure compliance with ITAR, FAR/DFARS, and other applicable government regulations.

· Maintain accurate procurement records in the ERP/MRP system and support audits and reporting.

· Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead supplier development and improvement initiatives.

· Support new product introductions and engineering change orders by coordinating timely material availability.

· Participate in cross-functional meetings and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.

· Monitor market trends and supply chain risks; develop mitigation strategies for critical items.

· Communicate effectively with suppliers and internal teams to resolve quality, delivery, and documentation issues in a timely and professional manner.

Required Qualifications: 

· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field

· Minimum of 5 years of procurement experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management within aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing.

· Strong knowledge of procurement practices, contract negotiation, and supplier management

· Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or equivalent acceptable)

· Familiarity with ITAR, FAR/DFARS, and AS9100 requirements

· Ability to interpret and apply technical specifications, engineering drawings, and material requirements during sourcing and purchasing.

· Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills

· Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications: 

· CPSM or CPM certification

· Experience with strategic sourcing and supplier development

· Knowledge of export control regulations and government contracting

· Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies

· Experience working with defense or government suppliers subject to DCMA or DLA oversight.

Physical Requirements: 

· Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods and frequently perform tasks that require repetitive motion, such as typing on a keyboard.

· Regular use of a computer, telephone, and headset is required, including participation in virtual meetings via Microsoft Teams.

· This is primarily an office-based role located within a shared open-concept office inside a warehouse facility. The work environment may include elevated noise levels due to open workspaces and conversational noise. Employees should be comfortable working in a setting where sound carries and interruptions may occur.

· Occasional travel to supplier sites for audits or evaluations Occasional travel (domestic) to supplier sites for audits, evaluations, or supplier development activities.

· Must be able to read and interpret technical specifications and procurement documentation Must be able to read, analyze, and interpret technical specifications, engineering drawings, and procurement documentation with accuracy.

Additional Information: 

The Key Responsibilities are an outline of the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications. The company may amend or modify duties based on business needs in accordance with applicable California labor laws. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Security Clearance Eligibility:

Some positions at Brandywine Communications may require the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance. While not all roles require an active clearance at the time of hire, applicants must be eligible for clearance under federal guidelines, and employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a government background investigation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

Brandywine Communications is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Brandywine Communications strives to create a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you require accommodation during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact the Human Resources department.