Development Buyer

Job Purpose and Primary Objectives

Benchmark Space Systems, a leader in small satellite propulsion systems and in-space mobility services, is looking for a highly detail-oriented Development Buyer to join our team and take ownership of development buying.

In this role, you would need to navigate evolving requirements, support engineering teams, and ensure timely delivery of critical materials for design and testing milestones for research and development activities.

This is an on-site role at our Pleasanton, CA office.

At Benchmark Space Systems
, we’re pioneering the future of in-space mobility. Our propulsion technologies provide satellites the ability to maneuver, avoid collisions, and maximize mission potential—all while contributing to a safer, more sustainable space environment.

Backed by recent funding and a growing slate of new flight contracts for government and commercial customers, we’re building a workplace where bold ideas and passionate people thrive. Engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers at Benchmark tackle some of the toughest challenges in spaceflight, working together to turn cutting-edge concepts into real-world solutions. If you're ready to help shape the next era of spaceflight, there's never been a better time to join Benchmark Space Systems.

At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast-paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to solve problems, not be afraid to ask questions and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, there are primary job responsibilities and measurements of success for this position, which are:

• Partner closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Supply Chain to support development builds and NPI (New Product Introduction) activities.
• Source and procure prototype and low-volume hardware, ensuring alignment with program schedules and technical requirements.
• Evaluate purchase requisitions, lead RFQs/RFPs, and manage supplier selection based on cost, quality, delivery, and technical capability.
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance tracking (delivery, quality, responsiveness) and issue resolution.
• Identify and onboard new suppliers to support evolving product design and technology needs.
• Coordinate with suppliers on lead times, design changes, and engineering updates during development cycles.
• Track and communicate material status to internal stakeholders, ensuring transparency on risks and schedule impacts.
• Support make vs. buy decisions and cost reduction initiatives early in the design phase.
• Collaborate with Quality to ensure compliance with aerospace standards and internal requirements.
• Assist in transition from development to production (handoff to production procurement and supply base scaling).

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, engineering, business, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in procurement, sourcing or supply chain roles, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.
• Strong experience with supplier relationships, contract management, and sourcing.
• U.S. Person Requirement: Due to the nature of the work and access to export-controlled information, applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. export control laws. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.

What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:

• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Net Suite, SAP, or similar).
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
• Thorough understanding of materials and supplies used in the company.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Acts as a proactive problem-solver, not just a transactional buyer.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

• Master’s…