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Strategic Purchasing Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SDHR Consulting

Purchasing Manager

Poway, CA · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

This is a hands-on leadership role with responsibility for purchasing strategy, supplier ... Manage allocation and capacity constraints while prioritizing materials based on production ...

AMPAM Parks Mechanical

Purchasing Manager

Carson, CA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Purchasing Manager - Carson, CA Who We Are AMPAM Parks Mechanical specializes in multifamily ... This role partners closely with strategic procurement project managers, estimators, field ...

Ampam Parks Mechanical Inc.

Purchasing Manager

Carson, CA · On-site

$110 - $125/hr

Purchasing Manager FULL TIME Carson, CA, US Salary Range: $110,000.00 To $125,000.00 Annually Who ... This role partners closely with strategic procurement project managers, estimators, field ...

SOMACIS INC

Purchasing Manager

Poway, CA · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading, strategic planning, and overseeing all day-to-day procurement operations to ensure a timely, accurate, and cost-effective supply of materials and ...

Lux

Purchasing Manager

South San Francisco, CA

... management of agreements and vendors Establish short and long term purchasing objectives with ... You will mentor and drive the Buying team to obtain their strategic goals. You are passionate about ...

SOMACIS

Purchasing Manager

Poway, CA · On-site

Purchasing Manager Department: Procurement / Supply Chain Reports To: Chief Procurement Officer ... This role balances high-level strategy; such as cost optimization, supplier relationship management ...

Forgent

Purchasing Manager

Vernon, CA · On-site

Purchasing Manager Join MGM Transformer Company MGM Transformer Company is seeking an experienced ... Support strategic sourcing initiatives and supplier qualification processes. * Analyze purchasing ...

MGM Transformer LLC

Purchasing Manager

Vernon, CA · On-site

Purchasing Manager Join MGM Transformer Company MGM Transformer Company is seeking an experienced ... Support strategic sourcing initiatives and supplier qualification processes. * Analyze purchasing ...

MGM Transformers

Purchasing Manager

Vernon, CA · On-site

$76K - $90K/yr

Purchasing Manager Join MGM Transformer Company MGM Transformer Company is seeking an experienced ... Support strategic sourcing initiatives and supplier qualification processes. * Analyze purchasing ...

Houdini Inc.

Be Seen First

Purchasing Manager

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on execution , serving as a player-coach who ... Step in to directly manage purchasing activities during high-volume periods, team absences, or ...

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Strategic Purchasing Manager information

What does a strategic purchasing manager do?

A Strategic Purchasing Manager is responsible for overseeing the procurement process and developing strategies to ensure the organization sources goods and services efficiently and cost-effectively. They analyze market trends, negotiate with suppliers, and build strong relationships to secure the best terms. Their role often includes managing budgets, evaluating supplier performance, and working closely with other departments to align purchasing strategies with overall business goals. Ultimately, Strategic Purchasing Managers help organizations optimize their supply chains and maintain a competitive edge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a strategic purchasing manager?

To thrive as a Strategic Purchasing Manager, you need expertise in procurement strategies, contract negotiation, supplier management, and often a degree in supply chain management or business. Familiarity with ERP systems, sourcing platforms, and relevant certifications such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and leadership skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for optimizing costs, ensuring supply chain resilience, and driving value for the organization.

How does a strategic purchasing manager typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

A Strategic Purchasing Manager regularly works cross-functionally with various departments such as production, finance, and logistics to ensure sourcing strategies align with organizational goals. They coordinate with engineering and product teams to understand specific material requirements, partner with finance to manage budgets and cost-saving initiatives, and communicate with logistics to optimize supply chain efficiency. Effective collaboration is essential for negotiating contracts, maintaining supplier relationships, and resolving supply issues promptly. This role often serves as a bridge between internal stakeholders and external suppliers to drive value and mitigate risks.

What is the difference between Strategic Purchasing Manager vs Purchasing Agent?

AspectStrategic Purchasing ManagerPurchasing Agent
CredentialsBachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or related field; certifications like CPSMHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, vendor negotiations, procurement strategy developmentOrder processing, supplier communication, purchase execution
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, retail, logistics for long-term procurement planningCommon in retail, wholesale, and manufacturing for day-to-day purchasing

The Strategic Purchasing Manager focuses on developing procurement strategies and managing supplier relationships, often overseeing large contracts and long-term planning. In contrast, the Purchasing Agent handles the execution of purchase orders and supplier communication. Both roles are essential in supply chain operations but differ in scope and strategic involvement.

What are popular job titles related to Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in California?

For Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Strategic Purchasing Manager job openings:

Strategic Purchasing Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Strategic Purchasing Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Purchasing Manager

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

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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