Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer

Location:

Melbourne, FL, US 32935

The Electro Optical Infrared Systems (EOIS) line of business within DRS has locations in Dallas and Austin, TX, Melbourne, FL, and Cypress, CA. EOIS develops, manufactures, and supports infrared and electro‑optical solutions for soldiers, ground vehicles and airborne platforms. We offer an exciting and challenging work environment, a competitive salary and benefits package, and a business culture that rewards performance.

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Buyer III to join our Supply Chain team within a dynamic and fast‑paced aerospace and defense environment. The Buyer III will be responsible for the procurement of complex materials, components, and services in support of engineering and production programs. This role requires strong negotiation skills, supplier relationship management, and the ability to ensure on‑time delivery of high‑quality, cost‑effective goods and services.

• Execute procurement activities for high-value, technically complex components and assemblies, in accordance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and company policy.
• Analyze MRP/ERP demand and issue RFQs, RFPs, and POs to qualified suppliers.
• Evaluate supplier quotes for technical compliance, cost, and delivery; perform cost/price analysis and support fact‑finding and negotiation efforts.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to support long‑term strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Ensure supplier performance by actively managing delivery, quality, and responsiveness; initiate corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, program management, contracts, and legal to ensure alignment with program objectives and contract requirements.
• Support supplier risk assessments, mitigation strategies, and improvement plans.
• Assist in audits and compliance reviews related to purchasing activities and documentation.
• Lead or contribute to process improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce cycle times.
• Ensure accurate and timely input of procurement data into ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Maintain records in accordance with internal procedures and government regulations.

• Requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a related field and 5 years of DFAR/FAR purchasing experience in the aerospace and defense industry.
• 5+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain, 3 of which in the aerospace and defense industry.
• Strong working knowledge of FAR/DFARS, ITAR, and other U.S. Government procurement regulations.
• Experience working with MRP/ERP systems.
• Proven ability to negotiate, manage contracts, and resolve supplier performance issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship required; active DOD security clearance or ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.

• Active U.S. Security Clearance (Secret or above).
• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), or equivalent certification.
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO standards, and Quality Assurance processes.
• Experience in cost analysis and strategic sourcing.
• Background in supporting DoD programs.

Leonardo DRS offers competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision coverage; a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs focusing on physical, emotional, and financial well‑being and support career growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. We also provide flexible work schedules, the 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.

Some employees may be eligible for limited benefits only.

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.