Buyer III

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We are seeking a Buyer III to join our Procurement team in Rancho Bernardo, California. Under general direction with limited review, the Buyer III is responsible for procuring parts, materials, equipment, goods, and services required to support contracts, subcontracts, and internal operations. This position manages a broad range of commodities, including assemblies, outside process services, custom laser products, electronic components, machined and fabricated parts, hardware, mechanical and electrical components, and technical services. The Buyer III ensures timely and cost-effective sourcing while maintaining quality, schedule, contractual, regulatory, and company compliance requirements.

The position evaluates and selects suppliers, analyzes bids and pricing, conducts negotiations, monitors supplier performance, and serves as a primary purchasing contact for assigned purchase orders or contracts. The Buyer III may also provide guidance to less experienced purchasing personnel and represent the organization in meetings and presentations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Ensures compliance with company policies and procedures and applicable government regulations.
• Compiles and analyzes statistical data to determine feasibility of buying products and to establish price objectives.
• Identifies, develops and selects qualified suppliers.
• Evaluates supplier reliability and performance.
• Coordinates competitive and sole source procurements to meet required purchase dates and prepares required support documentation.
• Reviews and analyzes suppliers' bids. Performs cost and/or price analysis.
• Conducts major procurement negotiations involving agreements on terms and conditions as well as prices and schedules.
• Participates in cost and pricing reviews with program management and customers.
• Follows up, expedites, and negotiates changes relative to delivery and supplier performance.
• Maintains professional relationship with internal and external customers and suppliers.
• May represent the organization as the primary purchasing contact on assigned contracts/subcontracts. May make presentations as required.
• May provide advice to professional or technical staff on purchasing matters.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Additional Functions Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.


 

• Typically requires a bachelor's degree in business administration or related discipline along with six or more years of progressive professional purchasing experience. Equivalent professional purchasing experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Must have a complete understanding of purchasing concepts and principles, FAR and related governmental rules and regulations; and experience demonstrating a complete application of those principles, concepts, and practices.
• Must be customer focused and possess:
  • The ability to provide solutions to a range of complex purchasing problems.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills to accurately document and report findings to a variety of audiences.
  • Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to influence and guide employees, managers, and customers.
  • The ability to organize, schedule and coordinate multiple work phases.
  • The ability to lead less experienced purchasing staff on projects.
  • Strong computer skills. SAP experience is desirable.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team is essential as is the ability to work extended hours as required.