Strategic Procurement Specialist

Job Title: Strategic Procurement Specialist

Location: TX or NM

About Us: X-Bow Systems is an innovative aerospace and defense company revolutionizing propulsion systems for space exploration and defense applications. As a growing startup, we operate in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability, independence, and hands-on problem-solving are key to success. We are seeking a  Strategic Procurement Specialist who thrives in unstructured environments, can manage complex contracts independently, and has experience in regulated industries or manufacturing environments.

Job Summary: Th e Procurement Specialist will manage the procurement lifecycle for diverse programs and departments, focusing on sourcing, negotiating, and executing contracts for specialized materials, equipment, and services. This role requires a proactive, hands-on approach to procurement, with the ability to adapt to fast-changing situations and work independently in a low- structure environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Procurement Lifecycle Management:

• Independently manage the entire procurement process, including sourcing, negotiation, awarding, oversight, tracking, acceptance, and payment.

• Execute and manage complex contracts for commodities such as metals, aerospace materials, chemicals, and capital assets.

• Supplier and Contract Management:

• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, ensuring compliance with engineering, quality, and regulatory requirements.

• Develop and implement cost-saving strategies, lead time improvements, and supplier rationalization initiatives.

• Resolve procurement discrepancies in collaboration with accounting, suppliers, and internal departments.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner with Quality and Engineering teams to develop procurement requirements and terms and conditions.

• Work closely with program, planning, and operations teams to provide status updates, action plans, and recovery strategies.

• Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities to streamline procurement processes, including consolidating purchasing volume and implementing long-term agreements.

• Conduct audits and assessments to identify gaps and improve procurement efficiency.

• Adaptability and Problem-Solving:

• Handle fast-changing situations and workloads with minimal supervision, creating efficiencies to streamline processes.

• Take ownership of decision-making in unstructured environments, ensuring positive outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain , Business Administration, or related discipline.

• Experience: 4+ years of hands-on experience managing the entire procurement process in regulated industries or manufacturing environments.

• Experience with commodities such as metals, aerospace materials, chemicals, or capital improvement/capital asset procurement.

• Skills: Proven ability to negotiate and manage complex contracts independently.

• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in fast-changing situations.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.

• Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, and International Trade Compliance.

• Experience working within an ISO9001 or AS9100 Quality Management System.

• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Project, as well as other information systems/data management tools.

• Travel: Willingness to travel up to 15%.