Sourcing Manager, Mechanical (Starshield)

SOURCING MANAGER, MECHANICAL (STARSHIELD)

Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on three areas: Earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. Designed to meet diverse mission requirements, Starshield satellites are capable of integrating a wide variety of payloads, offering unique versatility to users. With the proven ability to iterate rapidly, SpaceX's unique full-stack approach in developing end-to-end systems, from launch vehicles to user terminals, enables the deployment of capabilities at scale with unprecedented speed. Starshield's proliferated low-Earth orbit architecture provides inherent resiliency and constant connectivity to on-orbit assets, while SpaceX's proven rapid launch capability provides expedient and economical access to space.

As a member of the Starshield Supply Chain team, you will own the demand planning and strategic sourcing that power the hardware for SpaceX’s next-generation satellite constellation. You’ll drive end-to-end supply chain execution for critical components used both on the satellites and in their production, balancing aggressive cost, quality, and lead-time targets while scaling production at unprecedented rates. At SpaceX we don’t just manage suppliers; we actively shape them, pushing the industry to higher standards of performance and reliability. Our department spans procurement, planning & fulfillment, supplier development & quality, logistics, and inventory. In this role you will operate at the center of that ecosystem, enabling the high-volume satellite factory of the future.

We move fast. If you thrive in a high-velocity environment and want your work on projects that directly impact the national security of the United States, this is your opportunity.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work directly with key suppliers to develop and implement sourcing and cost management strategies that support existing platforms and new product development
• Act as the supplier interface for all RFIs, RFPs and RFQs
• Manage cost aggressively to ensure adherence to project-specific budgets and forecasts
• Develop should-cost models for competitive cost analysis
• Ensure that suppliers are prepared to support all prototype builds with appropriate equipment and material to ensure successful product development, ramp up and mass production
• Drive internal and external process improvements to enhance efficiency and implement cost-saving programs with suppliers
• Develop, manage, and maintain strong supplier partnerships
• Implement analytical data management tools to manage supplier performance
• Ensure all purchased parts are clear to build for all Starshield programs
• Collaboratively work with engineering and production to identify a reliable supply base to support all prototype builds, design changes and production builds.
• Ownerships of end-to-end supply chain responsibilities from sourcing strategies, vendor selection, vendor capacity, contract negotiation, part procurement, delivery tracking, budget planning and cross-functional communication.
• Ensure compliance with government and commercial contracts and assist mission managers with contract performance
• Conduct sourcing analysis to formulate a sourcing plan that includes strategic direction, supply roadmaps, price trends, market and industry position, and risk assessment
• Prepare, issue, and analyze RFx packages, ensuring all commercial terms are agreed upon and documented, using scalable processes for vendor selection, pricing analysis, risk assessment, and decision metrics for one-time and ongoing project requirements
• Survey supplier facilities and accurately assess technical capability, equipment, and capacity for rapid deployment in support of new product development and production
• Be the Starshield “Go to” supply chain resource for engineering and manufacturing stakeholders and determine and execute sourcing strategies to deliver the best value suppliers, NPI Sourcing Plans, make vs. buy analysis, and lead time optimization to the business
• Participate in design reviews, change control meetings, and other technical discussions with Engineering partners; participate in DFM review with Engineering and prospective suppliers and drive decisions from a cost and source reliability perspective

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of experience working in one or more of the following; OR 7+ years of experience working in one or more of the following:
• Engineering
• Purchasing
• Contract negotiation
• Material or production planning
• Operations or supply chain management
• Material cost control
• Master production scheduling

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 6+ years of experience in procurement, manufacturing, or related supply chain disciplines
• Experience with mechanical and/or special process manufacturers and suppliers
• Experience in managing outsourcing contract manufacturing partners
• Proven track record of taking ownership, successful NPI sourcing strategy development and execution in a fast-paced environment
• Technical procurement, product development, NPI, manufacturing, and negotiating with diverse supply base in electronics, mechanicals, and contract manufacturers.
• Exceptional analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills
• Effective written, verbal, and presentation communication skills
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to respond quickly to a fast-moving and ever-changing environment
• Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• May need to work irregular hours with global suppliers in different time zones
• Able to travel for short and extended trips as needed
• Willingness to work extended hours and/or weekends when needed
• This position is based in Hawthorne, CA and requires being onsite - remote work not considered

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Level 3: $120,000.00 - $170,000.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.