Avionics Sourcing Specialist - Area-I

Area-I, Inc. is a metro-Atlanta-based company dedicated to the development of state-of-the-art unmanned aircraft systems designed for use by the United States Armed Forces. We specialize in the development of unmanned aircraft systems that eject from host platforms or modular launch systems. These platforms are designed to meet the specific needs of our customers where we design, build, test, and ultimately deliver unique solutions to the customer. Area-I’s customers include the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and NASA.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

The avionics sourcing specialist will be responsible for crafting avionics procurement strategy, evaluating new suppliers and implementing sourcing initiatives.  This individual will coordinate with production, quality, and engineering to identify and execute outsourcing projects to increase throughput and achieve organizational goals.  In addition, this role will be the primary relationship manager for the supply base that supports avionics subassemblies.  The goal of this position is to build an avionics supply chain that will endure modern supply chain challenges and support the company’s overall growth strategies.  

RESONPSIBILITIES

• Develop overall procurement strategy for avionics subassemblies that supports the company’s short- and long-term growth plans
• Negotiate purchasing agreements and/or contracts with suppliers to ensure a steady and reliable flow of material against a changing production schedule
• Spearhead the launch of new models and engineering changes through sourcing, ERP set up and initial buys
• Collaborate with the inventory and material handling groups to develop processes minimize inventory levels but protect against supply shortages
• Develop a supplier management system that aligns with the company’s AS9100 goals
• Identify, investigate, and implement cost savings initiatives that support continuous improvement
• Develop and document new processes into standard operating procedures (SOPs)

REQUIRED QUALIFICAITONS

• Procurement or purchasing experience in a manufacturing setting (aerospace, automotive, electronics, or medical industry preferred)
• Experience with contract management and/or negotiating purchasing agreements with suppliers of varying size and scope
• Familiarity with supplier quality metrics, scorecards, and rating supplier performance
• Understanding material requirements planning (MRP) and inventory control
• Familiarity with materials management or production planning in ERP systems
• Ability to catalogue new processes in standardized operating procedures (SOPs)
• Strong communication skills with the focus on customers service and collaboration
• Willing to work overtime under tight deadlines and multitask with little supervision
• Must be a team player and maintain positive attitude
• U.S. Person Status is required as this position needs to access export-controlled data

PREFERRED QUALIFICAITONS

• Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering or a Bachelor of Arts in business, finance, or supply chain management
• Understanding of logistics and warehouse management
• Experience working in new model launch or start up environments
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, six sigma or the Toyota Production System (TPS)
• Experience government property under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)

 Area-I is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. If you are someone passionate to work on problems that matter, we'd love to hear from you!

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