Senior Buyer Procurement Specialist

Job Title: Senior Buyer/Procurement SpecialistLocation: Thomaston, CTDepartment: Supply Chain / ProcurementReports To: Supply Chain ManagerEmployment Type: Full-time

This position will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, and services to support manufacturing efforts. This role requires strict attention to compliance with U.S. government contracting regulations, supplier performance standards, and quality assurance requirements.Key Responsibilities:Manage the full procurement lifecycle, from supplier selection and RFQ/RFP issuance to purchase order creation, tracking, and delivery follow-up.Source and qualify suppliers that meet Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) and ITAR requirements, where required. Develop supplier relationships and manage supplier performance via regular check-ins and site visits. Perform cost analysis and negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to achieve best value while maintaining compliance with company and government regulations.Collaborate with operations/administrative teams to ensure timely procurement of materials that support budget goals and adhere to technical/quality specifications.Manage supplier performance, delivery schedules, and quality metrics, resolving issues proactively to minimize production delays.Maintain accurate procurement documentation for audits and contract compliance. Support cost-reduction initiatives and continuous improvement programs within the supply chain function.Ensure adherence to ethical standards, export control requirements, and corporate purchasing policies.

Provide mentoring and training for less experienced team members. ---Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).Minimum 3–5 years of experience in procurement or purchasing, preferably in a defense, aerospace, or regulated manufacturing environment.Strong knowledge of FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and government contracting processes. Ability to understand engineering drawings and specifications.Proven negotiation and supplier management skills.Experience with ERP/MRP systems (INFOR Visual, Oracle).Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.

Ability to organize and manage large amounts of data from various sources. Experience with AI tools a plus.

Willingness to travel up to 15%.U.S. citizenship required (due to government contract and export control regulations).---What We Offer:Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.Opportunity to contribute to critical national defense programs.Supportive, mission-driven work environment.Career development and advancement opportunities within a growing defense manufacturing organization.