Posted 16 July, 2026
Buyer I
Rocket Lab
Auckland, AUK, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 92a3d716d6d1b62b
Job Description
Role Overview The Supply Chain team is responsible for managing the flow of all materials, products, and components used in Rocket Lab’s launch vehicle and satellite programs. This role supports engineering and production teams by sourcing and procuring raw materials for rocket and satellite manufacturing. Responsibilities Source materials, evaluating vendor capability, price, delivery needs, and performance. Ensure on‑time delivery of materials to Rocket Lab. Build and maintain business relationships with assigned suppliers. Manage the RFQ process to secure competitive bids and achieve best pricing. Act as primary point of contact for R&D order status and coordinate with Engineering teams. Provide status updates to material planners on purchase orders and delivery dates. Negotiate terms with suppliers to meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements. Maintain purchase order data within the ERP system. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business Management, or related field. Proven ability to source, onboard, and negotiate pricing with suppliers. Strong knowledge of purchasing processes. Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of time. Preferred Qualifications Experience as a Buyer, Manufacturing Engineer, or equivalent role. Proficiency in MRP systems. Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries. Experience working in a rapid growth environment. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings. Experience with AS9100 and U.S. export controls. Strong organizational and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities. Team oriented, capable of multi‑tasking and meeting multiple deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. Additional Requirements Vision: close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception, and focus ability. Frequent use of hands, fingers, computer keyboard, and controls. Physical ability to commute to company buildings. Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise. Eligibility Requirements To comply with U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR), employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible for required authorizations. This requirement applies to all U.S. office positions. Equal Employment Opportunity Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr