Buyer III - Tooling​/Maintenance Inventory

Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

The Buyer III is a senior procurement professional responsible for managing tooling and maintenance inventory levels across the organization. This role requires advanced technical expertise in interpreting MRP (Material Requirements Planning) data, understanding demand signals, and ensuring optimal inventory levels to support manufacturing operations. The position plays a critical role in preventing production delays while minimizing excess inventory costs.

• Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels for tooling and maintenance items

• Analyze MRP data to identify and prevent potential stockouts or overstock situations

• Coordinate with maintenance teams to understand tooling life cycles and replacement patterns

• Implement advanced inventory control techniques to balance service levels with inventory investment

• Develop and execute strategic sourcing plans for critical tooling and maintenance items

• Establish and maintain relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable supply

• Negotiate favorable pricing, terms, and service level agreements

• Identify alternate sources for critical parts to mitigate supply chain risks

• Interpret complex MRP data and demand signals to make informed procurement decisions

• Analyze usage patterns and forecast future requirements for tooling and maintenance parts

• Evaluate technical specifications to ensure procured items meet engineering requirements

• Perform cost analysis and value engineering to identify cost‑saving opportunities

• Identify and implement improvements to procurement and inventory management processes

• Develop KPIs and metrics to track performance and drive continuous improvement

• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to optimize the end‑to‑end supply chain

• Lead or participate in projects to enhance procurement systems and capabilities

• Mentor junior buyers and share technical knowledge

• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams

• Provide regular reporting to management on key procurement metrics

• Serve as subject matter expert for tooling and maintenance procurement

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field

• 5+ years of progressive procurement experience, with at least 2 years specifically managing technical/industrial parts inventory

• Advanced understanding of MRP systems and inventory management principles

• Demonstrated experience interpreting demand signals and planning inventory accordingly

• Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar)

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills

• Excellent negotiation and supplier management capabilities

• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (pivot tables, vlookup, data analysis)

• Knowledge of maintenance operations and tooling requirements

• CPSM, CSCP, or other relevant professional certification

• Experience with lean inventory management techniques

• Knowledge of predictive maintenance concepts and their impact on inventory planning

• Six Sigma certification (Green or Black Belt)

• Experience with data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau)

• Understanding of TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) principles

• Experience implementing inventory optimization software

• The position may require occasional travel to supplier facilities and other company locations

• This role involves coordination with multiple departments including Maintenance,…