Supply Chain Lead

Rigetti Computing is building the world’s most powerful computers to solve humanity’s most pressing problems. We believe this technology will fundamentally change the world for the better and will affect nearly every industry over the coming decades.

As Supply Chain Lead, you will have responsibilities from end-to-end in supply chain strategy, operations, and execution for advanced quantum hardware and subsystem components. You will manage high-complexity sourcing, logistics, partner relationships, risk mitigation, and continuous optimization to support scalable quantum system builds. And you’ll partner closely with engineering, product, operations, and quality teams to deliver mission-critical supply of high-precision components under tight tolerances, lead times, and regulatory constraints.

This role requires someone who can navigate a nascent, high-technology supply base (e.g. for lasers, optics, cryogenic systems, control electronics, qubit materials) and build robust supply chains under uncertainty.

• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute the supply chain strategy for quantum hardware and associated subsystems (e.g. cryogenics, control electronics, photonics)
• Translate product roadmaps and demand forecasts into supply chain plans, capacity needs, and sourcing strategies
• Drive cost reduction, total cost of ownership (TCO) optimization, and margin improvement across supply chain
• Ensure compliance with export control, ITAR, trade, and security requirements

• Sourcing & Supplier Management
• Identify, qualify, and manage strategic suppliers for highly specialized and precision components
• Assist with negotiating contracts, pricing, lead times, and terms, balancing cost, quality, and supply risk
• Conduct supplier audits, capability development, and continuous improvement programs
• Help us build a program of supplier scorecards and SLAs; escalate and remediate supplier performance issues

• Supply Chain Operations & Logistics
• Oversee procurement, inventory management, and material flow (incoming, internal, intersite transfers)
• Develop a systematic approach to handle high volume purchase requisitions: volume is 50-100 POs per week placed
• Manage inbound logistics, customs, import/export compliance, and coordination with freight forwarders
• Lead demand-driven supply execution, order placement, expediting, and order change management
• Collaborate with operations/assembly teams to align material availability with production schedules
• Pick/Pack and Ship domestic and international shipments using designated brokers (Fed Ex , UPS )

• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership
• Partner with engineering, product, operations, quality, and finance to ensure alignment
• Lead cross-functional supply chain reviews, design for supplyability, and change control
• Mentor and manage junior supply chain staff or buyers
• Communicate status, risks, and mitigation plans to senior leadership

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or related field; advanced degree a plus
• 8–12+ years of progressively responsible supply chain / procurement experience in high-tech, manufacturing, aerospace, or similar fields
• Demonstrated success managing supply chains for precision, high-reliability, or specialized subsystems (e.g. optics, electronics, vacuum, cooling)
• Team player that works well with all departments (Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing Eng, Doc Control, etc.)
• Supplier negotiation, contract management, and supplier development skills
• Experience with global sourcing, import/export compliance, logistics, and customs
• Excellent analytical, modeling, and planning skills
• Strong leadership, cross-functional communication, and stakeholder management
• Experience with supply chain / ERP / planning software tools; preferably Net Suite

• Experience in quantum, semiconductor, cryogenics, or related advanced technology supply chains
• Working knowledge and experience in one or more of the following commodities: RF cables, Machining, Sheet Metal, Floor Stock , and Mechanical /Electrical Assys
• Knowledge of export controls, ITAR, EAR, security, and trade compliance
• Experien…