Senior Buyer

Responsibilities

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Own end-to-end procurement for assigned commodities, including precision machined components, electromechanical assemblies, optics/lasers, sheet metal, weldments, and metal powders supporting production of Velo3D Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems

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Manage approximately [$X–XM] in annual spend across assigned commodity categories

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Lead complex supplier negotiations focused on cost, lead time, quality, payment terms, and risk reduction; negotiate and administer long-term agreements (LTAs), MSAs, and NDAs

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Develop and execute commodity sourcing strategies, including dual/second-source qualification and supply base rationalization

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Perform should-cost analysis and total cost of ownership (TCO) modeling to drive fact-based negotiations

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Drive cost-reduction and value-engineering initiatives in partnership with Engineering and Operations

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Serve as escalation point for supplier performance, delivery issues, and quality concerns; lead corrective action and continuous improvement efforts using supplier scorecards

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Ensure materials availability to support production plans in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment while optimizing inventory investment

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Maintain and improve purchasing data integrity in [ERP system] (pricing, lead times, MOQs, safety stock parameters)

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Support make/buy decisions and new product introduction (NPI) sourcing activities

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Conduct supplier site visits, business reviews, and audits as needed. Travel to our Fremont, CA office regularly, up to 10% travel.

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Ensure sourcing activities comply with export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) where applicable

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Mentor junior buyers and planners; contribute to supply chain policies, controls, and process improvements

Qualifications

Required

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• 5–8+ years of progressive procurement or strategic buying experience in a manufacturing environment
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• Proven track record leading supplier negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships, including contract negotiation (LTAs, MSAs)
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• Strong understanding of supply chain risk management, inventory economics, and cost structures; experience with should-cost or TCO analysis
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• Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems ([name system]) and Excel, including data analysis and scenario modeling
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• Ability to operate autonomously, prioritize in a fast-paced environment, and make sound decisions with incomplete information
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• Strong communication, influencing, and cross-functional stakeholder management skills

Preferred

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• Experience in high-mix, low-volume, capital equipment, or regulated manufacturing (aerospace, defense, semiconductor, medical)
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• Experience managing suppliers within AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality systems
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• APICS (CPIM/CSCP), CPSM, or equivalent certification
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• Experience supporting NPI and rapid production ramp-up
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• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience