Buyer, Engineering

Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The global MDA Space team of more than 3,800 space experts has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one.

For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

MDA Space’s international footprint in the UK creates opportunities to work with some of the most exciting space industrial players in the country. Delivering all three business area capabilities in Geointelligence, Robotics & Space Operations, and Satellite Systems, our UK team provides support to our European-based customers while specializing in the development of advanced space sensors for exploration missions as well as space-based communication technology.

As our presence grows overseas, so does our need for new ambitious team players to help us advance our place in the Universe and beyond.

We re on the hunt for a Buyer to work from one of our UK locations in Harwell, Manchester or Stevenage.

• Ensure suitable standards, processes and controls are followed across all phases of the procurement process from initial RFI through RFP, negotiation, order placement and delivery follow up and tracking.
• Be the front person for all aspects of procured items.
• Contribute to the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities in the space community.
• Be comfortable to work across multiple projects for multiple customers.
• Be involved in the preparation of proposals, proposal work statements and specifications and operating budgets.
• Influence and carry out PO negotiations and modifications.
• Be comfortable in a fast moving and dynamic environment with whilst being able to remain calm and keep the team focussed on the goal.
• Lead both mechanical and electronic component/assembly procurement and delivery.
• An understanding of ESA and/or NASA standards would be beneficial.
• Ensure the relevant business processes are adhered to and business systems (ERP) are utilized correctly.
• A level of understanding with respect to UK/US export control guidelines would be beneficial.
• Project management understanding would be beneficial with the potential to learn and grow the role.

• 2-5 years of experience in procurement/buying preferably in the satellite and defence industry.
• Proven ability to carry out all of the required tasks from RFI through to component delivery.
• Orientated towards ensuring the best value for money can be achieved.
• Good negotiation skills.
• Track record of working across multiple projects and technology bases whilst working with suppliers globally.
• Willingness to learn but also educate others.
• Confident in engaging with vendors and making timely decisions.
• Be able to understand and analyse key procurement requirements technically and commercially.
• Experience of working with ESA/ECSS, NASA and MIL-STD processes and projects would be beneficial.
• Excellent negotiation skills, administration and organisational skills.
• Understanding of export and shipping regulations.
• Awareness of ISO 9001, AS9100, etc quality systems.
• Bachelor’s degree or other relevant diplomas would be beneficial but not a must.

• Problem solving.
• Self-starter.
• Customer satisfaction focused.
• Attention to detail.
• Adaptability and flexibility in an agile environment.
• Use of business systems (MRP/ERP).
• Proficient in collaborative working methods both physically and with remote teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including a demonstrated ability to interact effectively with customers, management, and peers.

We’re a…