Observable Space
space technology
StrategicSourcingManager
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optimal for Mid candidates.
“Strategic Sourcing Manager at Observable Space. Skills: strategic sourcing, vendor management, negotiation, tactical purchasing. Develop and execute category strategies. Lead competitive RFQ/RFP processes”
What You'll Achieve.
reduce total cost of ownership; improve supply chain resilience; keep programs on schedule
Industry & Context.
resolve supplier issues; proactively surface risks and opportunities
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience, mix of strategic sourcing and hands-on tactical buying, Demonstrated success negotiating supplier agreements, managing vendor relationships
Nice to Have
Familiarity with optical systems, precision hardware, electromechanical components, or aerospace/defense supply chains, Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, NetSuite, or similar) and procurement tools, Comfortable working with data: spend analysis, supplier scorecards, and cost modeling, Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field, CPSM, CPIM, or equivalent certification
What You'll Do.
Develop and execute category strategies
Lead competitive RFQ/RFP processes
Support make-vs-buy analyses
Identify opportunities to consolidate supplier base
Monitor supply market conditions
Build and own relationships with key suppliers
Conduct supplier performance reviews
Onboard new suppliers
Own the full purchase order lifecycle
Ensure all spend follows corporate approval processes
expedite critical deliveries
Coordinate closely with the Logistics team
Maintain accurate records and spend data
Support inventory management activities
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
collaborate with the Strategic Sourcing Director; partnering closely with the broader sourcing team; Serve as the primary purchasing point of contact for LA-based engineering, software, manufacturing, and operations teams; Align local purchasing activity with company-wide sourcing strategy; Engage early in new product introduction processes; Contribute to continuous improvement across the procurement function; Join a small, collaborative team
Communication Scope
communicate clearly; build trust quickly
Full Job Description
STRATEGIC SOURCING MANAGER Location: Los Angeles, CA Reports to: Strategic Sourcing Director ABOUT OBSERVABLE SPACE At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for observation and communications — on Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions and advanced government and commercial operators worldwide. Backed by top-tier investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, and RTX Ventures, we're a fast-growing, high-performance team building the future of optical infrastructure — and the supply chain behind it has to match that ambition. ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Strategic Sourcing Manager to anchor our Los Angeles operations, where our CTO and space optics and software teams are based. Our Strategic Sourcing Director is based at our manufacturing campus in Adrian, MI, making this role the primary sourcing presence at our LA facility — close to the engineers defining requirements, building supplier relationships that support LA-based programs, and partnering closely with the broader sourcing team on company-wide strategy. This is a hands-on role with real strategic scope. You will own day-to-day purchasing for the LA site while driving category strategy, supplier development, and cost optimization. WHAT YOU'LL DO STRATEGIC SOURCING - Develop and execute category strategies for precision optics, electromechanical components, and related hardware in close collaboration with the Strategic Sourcing Director - Lead competitive RFQ/RFP processes, evaluating suppliers across quality, cost, lead time, and supply risk Support make-vs-buy analyses and bring data-driven recommendations to sourcing and engineering decisions - Identify opportunities to consolidate the supplier base, r
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