Sourcing Specialist II

About the role

Rocket Lab is a leading space enterprise dedicated to providing launch services, designing and manufacturing spacecraft, and producing satellite components. Our primary goal is to improve access to space, supporting scientific research, national security, and commercial missions. As a Sourcing Specialist II, you will be a key member of the supply chain team, responsible for managing procurement activities to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of critical materials and components needed for our launch vehicles and satellite systems. This role involves working closely with engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams to facilitate seamless procurement processes, ensure quality standards, and support Rocket Lab's mission to deliver innovative space solutions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Evaluate potential and existing vendors by assessing their capabilities, pricing structures, delivery timelines, and quality standards to ensure they meet Rocket Lab's procurement requirements.
• Manage the end-to-end sourcing process, including requesting quotations (RFQs), analyzing bids, and selecting suppliers that offer the best value while adhering to quality and delivery standards.
• Establish and maintain strong business relationships with suppliers, fostering collaboration to ensure reliable supply chains and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to understand their procurement needs, specifications, and project timelines, providing timely updates on order statuses and delivery schedules.
• Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, delivery, and quality agreements, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee purchase order creation, approval, and tracking within the ERP system, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records of procurement activities.
• Monitor supplier performance through key metrics, addressing any issues related to delays, quality, or costs proactively to mitigate risks to production schedules.
• Coordinate with logistics and inventory teams to ensure the smooth receipt and storage of materials, minimizing delays and excess inventory.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives in procurement processes, leveraging feedback and data to optimize sourcing strategies and reduce costs.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to align procurement activities with project milestones, production schedules, and company objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant export control laws and regulations, including ITAR, to maintain Rocket Lab's adherence to legal and security standards.

Requirements

• A minimum of 2 years of relevant procurement or sourcing experience, or 6 years of total work experience, with a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.
• Proven ability to source, qualify, and negotiate with suppliers, particularly in high-tech or aerospace-related industries.
• Strong understanding of procurement processes, including RFQ management, supplier evaluation, and contract negotiation.
• Experience working with ERP systems and procurement software to manage purchase orders and supplier data.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Ability to analyze technical specifications and drawings to ensure procurement aligns with engineering requirements.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of the time to visit suppliers or attend meetings.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and attention to detail to manage multiple procurement activities simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment, adapting to changing priorities and deadlines.
• Knowledge of supply chain management principles and best practices.

Nice to have

• Experience with MRP (Material Requirements Planning) systems to support procurement planning.
• Background in aerospace, automotive, or other high-precision manufacturing sectors.
• Familiarity with AS9100 standards and U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR compliance.
• Experience working in a high-growth, innovative environment that requires agility and proactive problem-solving.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation to ensure accurate procurement.
• Strong negotiation skills with a track record of securing favorable terms with suppliers.
• Knowledge of international shipping, customs, and import/export procedures relevant to aerospace components.
• Experience with supplier audits and performance evaluations to maintain high standards.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems used for purchase order management and supplier data tracking.
• Familiarity with supply chain management principles, including inventory control, logistics, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate bids, supplier performance, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills to build and maintain supplier relationships.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications to ensure procurement accuracy.

Practical notes

Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or otherwise authorized to work in the United States, as the position involves compliance with U.S. export control laws, including ITAR. Rocket Lab offers a competitive salary range from approximately $72,000 to $90,000 USD, depending on experience and qualifications. The company provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, sick leave, paid holidays, parental leave, and a 401(k) plan with company matching. Additional benefits include an employee stock purchase program, onsite amenities such as EV charging stations, and a collaborative work environment designed to support innovation and professional growth.