Materials Program Manager

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems.

The Materials Program Manager (MPM) is responsible for managing purchasing activities for assigned programs, including strategic product and supplier strategies. The MPM manages the relationships between the program office(s) and the procurement organization.

• Monitors performance metrics and provides reports to Program Managers.
• Develops and maintains assigned performance metrics and provides reports as required.
• Tracks, monitors, and controls inventory for assigned programs.
• Provides input to the program EAC reviews including purchasing risks and opportunities.
• Works intimately with Program Scheduling and Production Planning to develop and track procurement schedule and milestones.
• Produces weekly status reports and action items for the Procurement Manager and supporting Program Managers as required; recommends solutions for materials shortages and/or strategies related to program milestones and objectives.
• Supports the MPM II with analyzing quotes from different suppliers and supports negotiation for best price and delivery schedule to meet program plan.
• Supports proposal reviews, EAC reviews, and program reviews. During proposal activities, helps MPM II develop Purchasing Basis of Estimates (BOEs).
• Additional tasks and other duties may be assigned.

None

• Maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Interact effectively with peers, supervisors, public, suppliers, and customers.
• Adhere to workplace rules.
• Communicate professionally, in writing or verbally, with all levels of personnel.
• Prioritize tasks and manage time wisely in a fast‑paced environment.
• Analyze data, business, and program strategies to reach accurate conclusions.
• Think analytically and produce accurate analysis, applying good judgment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of supply chain processes and related systems, subcontract management, logistics, and asset management.
• Strong project management skills, including converting Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) activities into discrete supply chain tasks.
• History in cost reduction and bidding techniques to maximize value.
• Negotiate with suppliers.
• Knowledge of the teaming agreement process.
• Purchase techniques including strategic supplier concepts.
• Problem solving and critical thinking skills.
• Negotiation skills and ability to drive solutions through an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment.
• Convert business area and customer requirements into executable strategies.
• Risk management methodologies and problem‑solving techniques.
• Working knowledge of customer flow through requirements such as FAR/DFARS, ITAR, offset, FCPA, quality and warranty clauses.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project) and ERP/MRP systems.

• Lean/Six Sigma Certification (Green or Black Belt).
• Subcontracts Management, minimum 3 years of direct experience.
• Earned Value Management Systems experience.
• Familiarity with CINCOM.

• Bachelor s Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or Engineering.
• 2–5 years experience in Supplier Management or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Basic understanding of proposal purchasing activities.
• Basic understanding of developing and managing program budgets.
• Strong computer skills in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• May be required to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information (requires US citizenship).

• Materials Program Manager Certification preferable.
• Market knowledge of, and experience with, Aerospace and Defense industry.

• Primarily works in an office environment; may infrequently conduct work or attend/hold meetings in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, writing, phones).
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with safety guidelines.

• Up to 25% domestic travel may be required.