Hiring: Senior Buyer - Optics Company: Leonardo DRS Location: Melbourne, FL Job Posted Time: 2026-09-10 14:22:41 Employment Type: Contract / Remote Target Skills & Keywords : C++, Cypress, Defense Industry, Program Management, Quality Assurance, SAP, Security Clearance About the job Experience: •5 years of DFAR/FAR purchasing experience in the Aerospace and Defense Industry •5+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain, 3 of which need to be in the aerospace and defense industry. Required Skills: •Direct experience purchasing optical components, optical assemblies, or precision electro-optical hardware is required. •Execute procurement activities for high-value, technically complex components and assemblies, in accordance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and company policy. •Analyze MRP/ERP demand and issue RFQs, RFPs, and POs to qualified suppliers. •Evaluate supplier quotes for technical compliance, cost, and delivery; perform cost/price analysis and support fact-finding and negotiation efforts. •Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to support long-term strategic sourcing initiatives. •Ensure supplier performance by actively managing delivery, quality, and responsiveness; initiate corrective actions as needed. •Partner cross-functionally with engineering, quality, program management, contracts, and legal to ensure alignment with program objectives and contract requirements. •Support supplier risk assessments, mitigation strategies, and improvement plans. Qualifications: •Requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in related field and 5 years of DFAR/FAR purchasing experience in the Aerospace and Defense Industry •Strong working knowledge of FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and other U.S. Government procurement regulations. •Proven ability to negotiate, manage contracts, and resolve supplier performance issues. •Excellent written and verbal communication skills. •U.S. citizenship required due to government contracts. •Active U.S. Security Clearance (Secret or above). •Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), or equivalent certification. •Operational familiarity with AS9100, ISO standards, and Quality Assurance processes. •Background in supporting DoD programs. •U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment. Compensation: •Flexible work environment (work from home / hybrid options) •Competitive benefits and rewards package Interested candidates, please apply directly through the job posting on company's career page or try via AI auto apply on this platform. Don't miss this opportunity to join a forward-thinking team!