Buyer

The role

The Buyer will support the development of systems required to design and build artificial-gravity, human-rated space stations. This role involves end-to-end sourcing activities, market research, and supplier performance management.

What you will do

• Support end-to-end sourcing activities from demand identification through purchase order placement
• Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and support RFQ/RFP execution
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications
• Develop and optimize the supply base to meet long-term program needs
• Lead source selection, negotiations, and contracting strategies
• Maintain sourcing documentation and purchase orders in ERP systems
• Track supply and demand signals to support schedule alignment and on-time delivery
• Partner with cross-functional teams to support supplier performance
• Support supplier performance management and continuous improvement efforts
• Identify cost and lead time opportunities through cost analysis

Required qualifications

• 0–2 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or a related role (internships/co-ops acceptable) for Level I
• Basic understanding of procurement processes (RFQ, PO lifecycle, supplier communication, lead times, Incoterms a plus) for Level I
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Attention to detail
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience) for Level II
• 2–4+ years of experience in sourcing/procurement, supply chain, or manufacturing operations for Level II
• Experience supporting supplier selection and RFQ/RFP cycles, negotiations, and PO placement for Level II
• Ability to travel up to 20%

Nice to have

• Exposure to manufacturing and/or aerospace supply chains
• Experience creating/updating RFPs/RFQs, purchase orders (POs), and work orders within an ERP (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, etc.)
• Ability to analyze quotes and build basic cost/price comparisons; familiarity with BOMs
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities with ambiguous inputs and shifting timelines
• Strong organizational skills and ability to make sound decisions with limited information
• Team-oriented and able to collaborate cross-functionally
• Comfortable working in a high-intensity environment supporting critical mission milestones

Benefits

• Company equity
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents
• Generous paid time off
• Up to 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff
• Up to 10+ days of vacation for non-exempt staff with the ability to cash-out unused vacation annually
• Paid parental leave
• Short and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
• ClassPass credits
• Personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health
• Snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge

About the company

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure. Headquartered in Long Beach, California, the company has more than 1,000 employees.