Senior Procurement Specialist

Arizona Tucson Corporate Office 3260 E Universal Way Tucson, AZ 85756, USA

Schedule:

9/80 (every other Friday off)

Salary range: $90,000-$110,000 annually.

At Universal Avionics, strong supply chain execution is critical to supporting innovative avionics systems used in aircraft around the world. We are looking for a Senior Procurement Specialist who can think strategically, build strong supplier partnerships, and help support fast-moving aerospace manufacturing and operational priorities.

This role goes beyond transactional purchasing. It’s an opportunity to influence supplier strategy, solve complex procurement challenges, and contribute directly to programs that support aviation safety, operational reliability, and next-generation aerospace technology.

At Universal Avionics, we develop advanced avionics, enhanced vision systems, and intelligent cockpit technologies that improve aviation safety and situational awareness worldwide. For over 40 years, Universal Avionics has been a trusted innovator in aerospace technology, supporting commercial airlines, business aviation, cargo operations, and special mission aircraft across the globe. As part of our team, we combine the agility of a collaborative engineering-focused organization with the strength and global reach of a leading aerospace and defense technology company.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Procurement Specialist to join our Purchasing team in Tucson, Arizona. This senior-level individual contributor role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment and enjoys balancing strategic supplier management with hands‑on procurement execution.

The ideal candidate brings strong negotiation skills, supply chain expertise, sound business judgment, and the ability to collaborate cross‑functionally to support production schedules, supplier performance, and operational success.

• Manage procurement activities supporting aerospace and avionics manufacturing operations
• Build strong supplier relationships while driving performance related to cost, quality, and delivery
• Lead supplier negotiations involving pricing, schedules, contractual terms, and procurement requirements
• Identify and qualify alternate sourcing solutions to support supply continuity and operational flexibility
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Planning, and Operations teams to support production priorities
• Analyze supplier performance, pricing trends, and sourcing strategies to support informed business decisions
• Support inventory optimization and supply chain improvement initiatives
• Interpret technical documentation and engineering drawings to ensure purchasing accuracy
• Help resolve procurement and supplier challenges in a dynamic production environment
• Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced buyers when needed
• Experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management within aerospace, avionics, defense, or high‑tech manufacturing environments
• Strong negotiation and supplier management capabilities
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast‑paced operational setting
• Familiarity with DOD procurement practices and FAR/DFARS requirements is highly valued
• Experience working with ERP/MRP systems and procurement‑related business processes
• Strong analytical thinking and problem‑solving abilities
• Ability to build effective working relationships across internal teams and external suppliers
• Comfortable operating in an environment that requires adaptability, ownership, and attention to detail
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred
• 5+ years of relevant procurement or buying experience preferred
• Work on meaningful aerospace and avionics programs with real‑world impact
• Collaborative and highly experienced cross‑functional teams
• Opportunity to influence supplier strategy and operational performance
• Exposure to complex aerospace manufacturing and supply chain operations
• Environment that values initiative, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Stability of an established aerospace company…