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Director Purchasing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Director Purchasing

San Diego, CA · On-site

We have an exciting opportunity for a Director of Purchasing! This position is responsible for directing the process of procuring material, parts, components, services, and equipment. Directs the ...

Wastequip WRX

Director of Purchasing

Ontario, CA · On-site

$145 - $160/hr

Reporting to the Division President, the Purchasing Director will manage a team, lead day to day procurement processes, develop and/or update procurement policies and procedures; and enhance ...

Wastequip

Director of Purchasing

Ontario, CA · On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

Reporting to the Division President, the Purchasing Director will manage a team, lead day to day procurement processes, develop and/or update procurement policies and procedures; and enhance ...

Wastequip Inc

Director of Purchasing

Ontario, CA · On-site

$145 - $160/hr

Reporting to the Division President, the Purchasing Director will manage a team, lead day to day procurement processes, develop and/or update procurement policies and procedures; and enhance ...

Wastequip

Director of Purchasing

Ontario, CA · On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

Reporting to the Division President, the Purchasing Director will manage a team, lead day to day procurement processes,develop and/or update procurement policies and procedures; and enhance Wastequip ...

Wastequip

Director of Purchasing

Ontario, CA

$145K - $160K/yr

Reporting to the Division President, the Purchasing Director will manage a team, lead day to day procurement processes,develop and/or update procurement policies and procedures; and enhance Wastequip ...

Lead Staffing

Purchasing Manager

National City, CA · On-site

Direct the purchasing team, oversee vendor relationships, ensure compliance with contract standards, and execute stage-one receiving inspections. Key Responsibilities * Procurement & Negotiation:

New

JM Eagle

Director of Purchasing

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Senior Purchasing Manager - Plastpro Los Angeles, CA | Full-Time Competitive Compensation ... This is a highly visible leadership role with direct influence over cost, inventory, supplier ...

JM Eagle

Director of Purchasing

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$160 - $210/hr

Purchasing - ProcurementSenior Purchasing Manager - Plastpro Los Angeles, CA | Full-Time ... This is a highly visible leadership role with direct influence over cost, inventory, supplier ...

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Director Purchasing information

How does a director purchasing typically collaborate with other departments to ensure efficient procurement processes?

A Director of Purchasing frequently works closely with departments such as finance, operations, and product development to align procurement strategies with organizational goals. This collaboration involves regular meetings to forecast needs, negotiate contracts, and solve supply chain issues. By fostering strong relationships across teams, the Director ensures timely delivery of materials, cost savings, and adherence to quality standards. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are key to overcoming challenges and optimizing the procurement workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director purchasing, and why are they important?

To excel as a Director of Purchasing, you need comprehensive knowledge of procurement processes, supply chain management, contract negotiation, and typically a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, procurement software, and professional certifications such as CPSM or CPM are highly valued. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities ensure cost-effective purchasing strategies, efficient supplier management, and alignment with organizational goals.

What does a director purchasing do?

A director of purchasing oversees the procurement process, develops purchasing strategies, manages supplier relationships, and ensures cost-effective acquisition of goods and services. They often lead a team, analyze market trends, and use procurement software to optimize supply chain operations.

What is the highest position in purchasing?

The highest position in purchasing is typically the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) or Vice President of Procurement, responsible for overseeing the entire procurement strategy and team. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve managing large budgets and supplier relationships.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Director Purchasing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Director Purchasing job openings:

Director Purchasing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Purchasing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Director Purchasing

San Diego, CA • On-site

General Atomics
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about General Atomicsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Director of Purchasing!
This position is responsible for directing the process of procuring material, parts, components, services, and equipment. Directs the activities of buyers and subcontract administrators to accomplish business objectives. Reviews and approves sizeable and complex purchase orders and subcontracts. Directs the development and interpretation of policies and procedures for the operation of the procurement department's activities and manages cost, schedule, and performance of subcontracts. Directs the coordination of purchasing activities with engineering and manufacturing departments. Typically accomplishes objectives through subordinate management and/or professional staff. May be responsible for decisions that have serious impact on overall success of the corporation.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Review and approve complex, high dollar purchase orders and agreements. Negotiate and award purchase orders and subcontracts on behalf of the corporation.
  • Establish and direct compliance with purchasing policies and procedures in accordance with all acquisition, export and other applicable regulations, company policies and contractual requirements.
  • Assign tasks, review work, and provide direction to staff while ensuring purchasing processes are met within established timelines.
  • Direct proposal efforts by obtaining subcontractor and supplier quotes and proposals which may include subcontractor costs and pricing data. Analyze and negotiate subcontractor and supplier pricing when appropriate. Provide subcontractor and supplier pricing inputs to proposals/pricing departments.
  • Manage production schedules by assisting in planning activities and monitoring buys.
  • Direct the facilitation of pre-award surveys and supplier evaluations.
  • Oversee various internal and external audits, including government and customer audits.
  • Act as primary contact for purchasing activities and issues. Typically represents the company with customers, potential customers and suppliers.
  • Keep abreast of best practices in supply chain and materials management.
  • Direct the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of human resources to ensure the availability of the required management and professional talent.
  • Maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Responsible for ensuring all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations are observed wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the company.
  • Responsible for ensuring work is accomplished in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Additional Functions Other duties as assigned or required

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
Typically requires a Bachelor's degree in business administration or a related discipline and fifteen or more years of progressive experience interpreting, awarding and administering complex contractual agreements with at least nine of those years managing purchasing processes and personnel. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
Must have demonstrated experience in the concepts, principles, and standard practices of supply chain management and purchasing and an extensive knowledge of contract construction, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), FAR supplements, and the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). Must be capable of coordinating inter-organizational activities and recommending creative solutions to complex issues. The ability to document, investigate, advise, interpret and explain complex issues or technical information to internal staff at all levels throughout the organization as well as external customers and suppliers is also required.
Must have detailed experience negotiating extremely complex purchases and subcontracts and conducting briefings while having a detailed and comprehensive understanding of materials requirements planning
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About General Atomics

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General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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