We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Buyer / Expeditor to lead procurement execution and supplier delivery performance in a government defense contracting environment. This role is responsible for end-to-end purchasing activities with a strong emphasis on expediting, supplier coordination, and ensuring on-time material availability to support production and program schedules. 

The ideal candidate has a strong background in procurement execution, supplier communication, and expediting within regulated environments. This role works cross-functionally with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and program teams to proactively manage supply risks, resolve delivery issues, and ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and internal procurement policies.

Key Responsibilities 
• Execute and manage purchase orders for materials, components, and services in alignment with production schedules and program requirements. 
• Actively expedite open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery and quickly resolve delays or supply disruptions. 
• Serve as the primary point of contact for suppliers regarding order status, delivery commitments, and issue resolution. 
• Monitor and maintain accurate promise dates, delivery schedules, and order status within ERP/MRP systems. 
• Ensure purchase orders include all required technical, quality, and contractual flow-down requirements. 
• Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including shortages, late deliveries, and capacity constraints. 
• Coordinate with suppliers to resolve discrepancies, nonconformances, and receiving issues in partnership with quality and engineering teams. 
• Support supplier performance management by tracking on-time delivery, responsiveness, and fulfillment accuracy. 
• Collaborate with planning, production, and program teams to prioritize critical material needs and adjust order priorities accordingly. 
• Maintain accurate procurement records and ensure audit readiness in compliance with government regulations and internal policies. 
• Assist in onboarding new suppliers as needed and ensure proper documentation and compliance requirements are met. 
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement execution, expediting processes, and supplier communication. 

Required Qualifications 
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience). 
• 5+ years of experience in procurement, buying, or supply chain operations, with a strong focus on expediting or supplier management. 
• Experience working in a government contracting or highly regulated environment. 
• Strong understanding of purchase order management, supplier coordination, and delivery tracking. 
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Unanet, SAP, Oracle, or similar). 
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data tracking. 
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. 

Preferred Qualifications 
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments. 
• Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS and ITAR requirements. 
• Experience managing supplier delivery performance and expediting in complex supply chains. 
• Background in resolving supplier quality or delivery issues in coordination with cross-functional teams. 
• APICS or ISM certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM) or equivalent. 

Key Competencies 
• Strong sense of urgency and ability to manage time-critical deliverables. 
• Detail-oriented with a compliance-focused mindset. 
• Excellent communication and supplier relationship management skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. 
• Proactive problem-solver with strong follow-through. 
• Collaborative team player with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders. 
• High level of professionalism and accountability in supplier interactions.