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Aerospace Purchasing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Company Overview Qarbon Aerospace is a premier manufacturer of cutting-edge composite components ... Purchasing 1 Position Overview Compiles and analyzes statistical data to determine feasibility of ...

Senior Aerospace SSP, a division of Senior plc, is the world's largest aerospace high-pressure ... The Purchasing Manager will analyze market and delivery systems in order to assess present and ...

Senior Aerospace SSP, a division of Senior plc, is the world's largest aerospace high-pressure ... The Purchasing Manager will analyze market and delivery systems in order to assess present and ...

Visioneering, Inc. provides the aerospace industry with high-quality conceptual design, engineering ... Purchasing Agent Reports to: Purchasing Manager Benefits Direct hire position, Referral Bonus ...

Purchasing Specialist

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Purchasing Specialist Full-time Kalamazoo, MI, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared ... Manage suppliers in a source-controlled aerospace setting to optimize cost, delivery, and lead ...

Be Seen First

... purchasing, and production teams Monitor project performance, budgets, and timelines to ensure ... and aerospace quality standards Maintain accurate project documentation and records Support ...

Be Seen First

Review new purchase orders and evaluate job requirements. Make sure we can produce and manufacture ... Paramount Panels serves the aerospace industry in the manufacturing of integrally illuminated ...

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Aerospace Purchasing information

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How much do aerospace purchasing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace purchasing in the United States is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in an Aerospace Purchasing role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Aerospace Purchasing professionals often face challenges such as managing complex supplier relationships, ensuring on-time delivery of specialized parts, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. These challenges can be managed effectively by building strong communication channels with suppliers, staying updated on industry regulations, and utilizing robust procurement software for tracking orders and inventory. Collaborating closely with engineering, quality assurance, and logistics teams is also key to proactively addressing issues and ensuring seamless supply chain operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Purchasing professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aerospace Purchasing, you need strong knowledge of procurement processes, supply chain management, and industry regulations, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as CPM or CPSM. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, supplier management software, and aerospace quality standards like AS9100 is essential. Strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help build relationships with suppliers and ensure compliance. These skills are crucial for maintaining cost efficiency, timely delivery, and regulatory adherence in a highly specialized and safety-critical industry.

What is the difference between Aerospace Purchasing vs Aerospace Procurement?

AspectAerospace PurchasingAerospace Procurement
CredentialsOften requires purchasing certifications and industry-specific knowledgeRequires procurement certifications and familiarity with supply chain management
Work EnvironmentTypically involves negotiating with suppliers and managing purchase ordersFocuses on sourcing, supplier selection, and contract management
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aerospace manufacturers and suppliers for acquiring partsCommon in aerospace companies for managing overall sourcing strategies

While both roles involve acquiring aerospace parts and materials, Aerospace Purchasing primarily focuses on executing purchase transactions, whereas Aerospace Procurement encompasses strategic sourcing and supplier management. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the aerospace industry.

What is aerospace purchasing?

Aerospace purchasing involves the procurement of materials, parts, and services required for the manufacturing and maintenance of aircraft and aerospace products. Professionals in this field are responsible for sourcing quality components from reliable suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely delivery while adhering to strict industry regulations and standards. Aerospace purchasing is crucial for maintaining the safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of aerospace operations.
More about Aerospace Purchasing jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerospace Purchasing jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Purchasing job openings:
What states have the most Aerospace Purchasing jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerospace Purchasing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Purchasing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,688 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and implement purchasing strategies that support organizational objectives, production schedules, and customer requirements.

  • Lead sourcing activities, negotiate contracts, and manage supplier performance for aerospace materials, components, equipment, and services.

  • Analyze procurement data to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvements, and operational efficiencies.


Job description

Purchasing Manager  

Job Summary: 

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading and managing all procurement and sourcing activities for the organization. This role develops and executes purchasing strategies that ensure the timely acquisition of materials, components, equipment, and services required to support aerospace manufacturing operations. The Purchasing Manager oversees supplier performance, negotiates contracts, manages procurement budgets, and drives continuous improvement initiatives to optimize cost, quality, delivery, and supplier reliability. 

This position exercises independent judgment and discretion in managing procurement activities, supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and purchasing strategies that directly impact business operations and financial performance. 

Required Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Develop and implement purchasing strategies that support organizational objectives, production schedules, and customer requirements. 

  • Lead sourcing activities for aerospace materials, components, raw materials, capital equipment, and services. 

  • Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers and subcontractors. 

  • Negotiate pricing, terms, contracts, and long-term agreements to achieve cost savings and mitigate supply chain risks. 

  • Evaluate supplier performance through quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost metrics. 

  • Lead supplier selection, qualification, and development efforts in collaboration with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Program Management teams. 

  • Monitor market trends, supply chain risks, and material availability to proactively address potential disruptions. 

  • Ensure compliance with aerospace industry requirements, customer specifications, regulatory standards, and company policies. 

  • Develop and manage departmental budgets, forecasts, and procurement spending plans. 

  • Analyze procurement data and metrics to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvements, and operational efficiencies. 

  • Direct inventory purchasing strategies to support production requirements while optimizing inventory levels and working capital. 

  • Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams during new product development and production ramp-up activities. 

  • Resolve complex supplier issues involving quality, delivery, pricing, or contractual disputes. 

  • Lead and develop purchasing staff, including performance management, coaching, training, and succession planning. 

  • Establish procurement policies, procedures, and best practices to support operational excellence. 

  • Participate in executive and operational planning activities related to capacity, forecasting, and supply chain strategy. 

  • Support customer audits, supplier audits, and regulatory compliance initiatives. 

  • Prepare and present procurement performance reports, supplier scorecards, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership. 

Desired Qualifications and Skills: 

           Education and Experience 

  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or related field preferred. 

  • Minimum of 7-10 years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment. 

  • Minimum of 3-5 years of leadership or management experience. 

  • Aerospace, defense, aviation, or highly regulated manufacturing industry experience strongly preferred. 

  • Equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience may be considered. 

           Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

  • Strong understanding of procurement principles, strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and supplier management. 

  • Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, materials, and supply chain requirements. 

  • Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and aerospace industry regulations. 

  • Strong analytical, financial, and business acumen. 

  • Proven ability to negotiate favorable supplier agreements and drive measurable cost savings. 

  • Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. 

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. 

  • Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications. 

  • Experience utilizing procurement metrics, KPIs, and supplier performance management tools. 

           Supervisory Responsibilities: 

  • Directly supervises purchasing personnel and related procurement staff. 

  • Responsible for hiring, training, performance evaluations, coaching, disciplinary actions, and employee development. 

  • Establishes departmental goals, objectives, and performance expectations. 

           Working Conditions: 

  • Primarily office-based within a manufacturing environment. 

  • Frequent interaction with suppliers, customers, and cross-functional teams. 

  • Occasional travel required for supplier visits, audits, trade shows, and business meetings. 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

Company Overview: 

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

__________________________________________________________________________ 

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.  
E-Verify participation required for employment.  
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
Must be able to pass background check and drug test.    
Pay Range: $105,000 - $135,000 Salary/Exempt  

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