Buyer I-II

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

The Buyer is responsible for supporting the sourcing, value analysis, bidding, negotiation, selection, approval, purchase, receipt, and quality of all materials for assigned commodities. The Buyer works closely with Material Program Managers, Engineering, Materials Program Manager and Production Planners to ensure supplier quality requirements and customer delivery is achieved through accurate and timely management of purchase orders for assigned commodities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels of Buyers. Each level of Buyer has additional duties and responsibilities listed.

Buyer ALL:

• Supports the development and maintenance of effective supplier relationships to achieve company goals to include achieving schedule, reducing material lead times, improving quality, reliable delivery performance and favorable pricing.
• Obtains competitive bids as appropriate.
• Researches sources of supply and requests supplier viability data (i.e. Survey Information, ISO Certifications).
• Updates and maintains supplier records.
• Reviews, reports and updates ERP (CINCOM) data related to supplier records.
• Supports Supplier Performance Reviews by printing reports, organizing data reviews with buyers, obtaining approvals, and issuing report and cover letter to suppliers.
• Supports senior level buyers with transactions for return to vendor, Government owned property and other buyer responsibilities.
• Attends meetings both internal and with suppliers, as needed.
• Follows established QMS procedures.
• Takes initiative in recognizing and proposing process improvement opportunities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities at one time.
• Demonstrated knowledge of supply chain processes
• Ability to prioritize tasks and organize workload to assure that timelines are met while having frequent interruptions.
• Ability to adjust priorities and manage time wisely in a fast-paced environment.
• Responsible for maintaining a clean and safe work area.
• Other assignments and/or projects as required.

Buyer I:

• Primary source for procurement of MRO materials and other non-direct materials.
• Utilizes system reports and other sources to meet production requirements and minimize inventory holding costs.
• Participates in the disposition of surplus, salvage, returned and discrepant materials.
• Notifies appropriate personnel when ordered material may be/or is past scheduled delivery date.
• Reviews material requirements to support production schedules and avoid expediting fees.
• Entry level negotiation skills

Buyer II:

• Manages procurement for small project-unique materials and some commodity procurement.
• Utilizes system reports and other inputs applying limited experience and judgment to meet production requirements and minimize inventory holding costs.
• Responsible for effective supplier management, tracking of supplier issues and performance, sourcing, proposals and supplier consolidation efforts.
• Mentors and trains level I Buyers.
• Ability to negotiate effectively and drive solutions and cost savings.

Buyer III:

• Manages procurement for assigned project unique materials, assigned commodities, and Sub-Contracts.
• Obtains competitive bids as appropriate. Quotes new materials for existing customers and new projects/Sales.
• Develops sources of supply and manages supplier performance.
• Utilizes system reports and other inputs applying advanced experience and judgment to meet production requirements and minimize inventory and increase turns.
• Utilizes experience and judgment to solve complex problems and recommend solutions proactively.
• Mentors and trains level I-II Buyers.
• Excellent negotiation skills and ability to drive solutions and cost savings.
• Ability to implement strategic processes or programs to benefit the organization.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

#LI-Onsite

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

Each successive level of Buyer builds on the identified knowledge, skills and abilities listed for the previous level(s) Buyer.

Buyer ALL:

• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
• Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary.
• Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft office (i.e. Word, Excel)
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.

Buyer I:

• Ability to solve problems with assistance, resulting from the nature of items produced and purchased.
• High degree of integrity; solid judgment and initiative.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to interface well with other internal departments and outside suppliers.
• Proficiency in automated business planning and control systems (MRP), as well as MS Office applications.
• Must be detail oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities and follow- assignments through to successful completion.
• Must be able to think analytically to complete work while meeting deadlines.
• Must be able to manage multiple priorities and be willing to seek assistance as needed from peers and/or manager.
• Must have the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Must be able to professionally handle a fast-paced work environment with competing demands and/or shifts in priorities.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Buyer II:

• Ability to solve complex problems independently resulting from the complex nature of items produced and purchased, with limited assistance.

Buyer III:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Analyze quotes from various suppliers and support the negotiation for best price and delivery.

Preferred:

Buyer ALL:

• Working knowledge of customer flow through requirements such as FAR/DFARS, ITAR

Buyer III:

• Foreign language skills a large plus.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required:

Buyer I:

• B.S. Degree in related field preferred, Minimum of 1 year directly related experience, preferably in an aerospace or composites manufacturing environment. Additional experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

Buyer II:

• B.S. Degree in related field preferred, minimum of 3 years directly related experience, preferably in an aerospace or composites manufacturing environment. Exposure or limited experience in a Lean Manufacturing environment preferred. Additional experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Some experience managing/measuring supplier performance.

Buyer III:

• B.S. Degree in related field preferred, minimum of 8 years directly related experience, preferably in an aerospace or composites manufacturing environment. Exposure or limited experience in a Lean Manufacturing environment preferred. Additional experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Experience managing and measuring supplier performance required.

Preferred:

N/A

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Office and or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• 0-10% May be required between KUAS locations and or supplier sites.