Strategic Sourcing Manager

Job description

STRATEGIC SOURCING MANAGER Location: Los Angeles, CA or Detroit, MI Reports to: VP of Operations ABOUT OBSERVABLE SPACE At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions. We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded computing, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products. From advanced ground stations, on orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space. Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Strategic Sourcing Manager to support our operations across Los Angeles, CA and our manufacturing campus in Adrian and Detroit, MI. You will be embedded with the teams defining the requirements and building the supplier relationships that keep our programs moving. This is a hands-on role with real strategic scope. You will own day-to-day purchasing while driving category strategy, supplier development, and cost optimization across the organization. Your sourcing decisions will directly influence product cost, production schedules, and our ability to deliver on programs that matter – from ground-based observation systems to space optics and laser communications platforms. WHAT YOU'LL DO STRATEGIC SOURCING - Develop and execute category strategies for precision optics, electromechanical components, and related hardware in close collaboration with sourcing and engineering leadership - Lead competitive RFQ/RFP processes, evaluating suppliers across quality, cost, lead time, and supply risk - Support make-vs-buy analyses and bring data-driven recommendations to sourcing and engineering decisions - Identify opportunities to consolidate the supplier base, reduce total cost of ownership, and improve supply chain resilience - Monitor supply market conditions and proactively surface risks and opportunities to leadership SUPPLIER MANAGEMENT & NEGOTIATION - Build and own relationships with key suppliers - Negotiate pricing, lead times, payment terms, and contractual conditions for standard and non-standard purchases - Conduct supplier performance reviews and drive corrective actions where needed - Onboard new suppliers in coordination with quality and engineering teams TACTICAL PURCHASING & OPERATIONS - Own the full purchase order lifecycle — from requisition through receipt and invoice reconciliation - Ensure all spend follows corporate approval processes and procurement policies - Manage open orders, expedite critical deliveries, and resolve supplier issues to keep programs on schedule - Coordinate closely with the Logistics team to optimize inbound freight and delivery planning - Maintain accurate records and spend data in ERP/procurement systems - Support inventory management activities including safety stock planning and excess/obsolete material disposition CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION - Serve as the primary purchasing point of contact for engineering, software, manufacturing, and operations teams across LA and Michigan sites - Engage early in new product introduction processes to support supplier identification and component qualification - Contribute to continuous improvement across the procurement function WHAT YOU’LL BRING - 5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience, with a mix of strategic sourcing and hands-on tactical buying - Demonstrated success negotiating supplier agreements and managing vendor relationships - Familiarity with optical systems, precision hardware, electromechanical components, or aerospace/defense supply chains strongly preferred - Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, NetSuite, or similar) and procurement tools - Comfortable working with data: spend analysis, supplier scorecards, and cost modeling - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field preferred - CPSM, CPIM, or equivalent certification is a plus WHO YOU ARE - You move fluidly between strategic work and execution — equally at home in a supplier negotiation and chasing down a late PO - Highly organized and effective in a fast-paced environment where production schedules have real consequences - You communicate clearly and build trust quickly — with suppliers, engineers, and leadership alike - Proactive by nature: you anticipate supply problems before they become crises - Analytically driven, but you know when to act on judgment and experience WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT HERE - Be part of a mission-driven company helping shape the future of space infrastructure - Work on technically complex, high-visibility programs where your sourcing decisions have real impact - Join a small, collaborative team where your voice is heard and contributions are felt immediately - Competitive salary, equity opportunities, and comprehensive benefits