Karman Space & Defense
Gulfport, Mississippi
Buyer
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Apply to Buyer at Karman Space & DefenseJob details
- Location
- Gulfport, Mississippi
- Work type
- Onsite
- Compensation
- $41,600 - $58,240/yr
- Posted
- 4 days ago
- Apply on
- recruitingbypaycor.com
About this role
Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next- generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.
This role is part of our Maritime Defense Systems business, which delivers integrated solutions with decades of proven performance across submarine, surface, and autonomous naval platforms supporting high-priority national defense programs. Our bow-to-stern capabilities include acoustic and sonar protection systems, propulsion systems, advanced composite structures, missile subsystems, canisters and launchers, and autonomous underwater vehicle subsystems. From concept through production, we combine engineering, materials expertise, specialized manufacturing, and large-scale testing to deliver mission-ready systems that reduce technical risk and support long-term operational performance.
In this role, you will manage procurement activities that directly support production for submarine fleet programs, ensuring materials and services are sourced competitively, compliantly, and on schedule. You will collaborate closely with suppliers and cross-functional teams to align purchasing decisions with cost, quality, and federal contracting requirements, enabling efficient operations and supporting program commitments.
Responsibilities
- Sources, negotiates, and purchases materials, supplies, and services to meet production and operational needs.
- Builds and maintains supplier relationships to ensure reliable performance, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- Monitors inventory levels and coordinates purchasing activities to support uninterrupted production.
- Prepares and manages competitive quotes for federal contracts in partnership with internal teams.
- Analyzes costs, lead times, and supplier capabilities to support accurate and competitive bids.
- Ensures compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) when preparing bids and sourcing materials.
- Evaluates vendor performance using key performance indicators such as quality, delivery, and cost.
- Conducts audits to verify supplier compliance with contractual, company, and federal requirements.
- Maintains accurate records of purchase orders, quotes, and contract documentation for regulatory and audit needs.
- Collaborates with finance, production, and engineering teams to support timely and cost‑effective procurement decisions.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years of procurement experience, preferably in a federal contracting environment.
- Strong negotiation skills and attention to detail.
- Knowledge of federal contracting regulations, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
- Proficiency with procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is a plus.
- Knowledge of federal procurement processes and compliance standards.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under tight deadlines, and adapt to changing project needs.
Physical Requirements
- Walking and standing throughout the workday in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
- Lifting up to 50 pounds.
- Physical activities may include bending, stretching, lifting, stooping, turning, twisting, pushing, pulling, raising arms above shoulders, climbing stairs or ladders, and operating heavy equipment.
- Use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, respirators or dust masks, protective footwear, and protective clothing.
- Work performed in environments that may involve cold or hot temperatures and dust.
- Ability to engage in collaborative communication with coworkers.
- Work may occur during non‑standard hours, including nights and weekends.
The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
- Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
- Tuition reimbursement
Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
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