Sourcing Specialist II

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise offering launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payload and satellite component production, aiming to broaden access to space. It supports vital global missions like scientific exploration, climate change monitoring, national security, and technology demonstrations. Their Electron rocket is among the most launched U.S. rockets, with over 230 satellites successfully delivered to orbit. The upcoming Neutron vehicle targets medium-lift reusable launch capabilities. Their Space Systems division designs spacecraft for NASA missions and components like those used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Supply Chain Overview

The Supply Chain team manages the flow of parts and materials essential for Rocket Lab's products, directly influencing the success of rocket and satellite programs. Responsibilities include assembly kit preparation, inventory management, procurement, and compliance checks to ensure quality standards. This team coordinates across departments critical to company operations.

Role Summary: Sourcing Specialist II

Located at the Toronto facility, Sourcing Specialists handle all purchase orders supporting engineering research and production scaling. They ensure supply availability for components that build launch vehicles and satellite systems. Their daily decisions impact cost, quality, and delivery targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Source materials after assessing vendor capability, pricing, delivery schedules, and performance.
• Ensure timely delivery of materials to Rocket Lab.
• Manage business relationships with assigned suppliers.
• Lead the Request for Quote process to secure competitive pricing on goods and services.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to fulfill procurement needs and provide R&D order updates.
• Communicate purchase order statuses and delivery expectations to material planners.
• Negotiate supplier terms to adhere to quality, cost, and delivery standards.
• Maintain accurate purchase order records in the ERP system.

Candidate Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience with a bachelor's degree, or 6+ years equivalent professional experience.
• Demonstrated success in sourcing, supplier onboarding, and pricing negotiations.
• Solid understanding of purchasing procedures.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of the time.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems.
• Background in aerospace, automotive, or high-growth manufacturing sectors.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of AS9100 standards and U.S. export control regulations.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment under tight deadlines.

Work Environment and Additional Details

This role involves extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production settings.

Salary Range (Ontario Only): CAD 65,000 to 80,000 annually. Final pay depends on qualifications and experience.

Rocket Lab’s compensation package may include stock options, cash incentives, employee stock purchase plan, medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and additional discounts and perks.

Company Culture and Mission

Rocket Lab is driven by innovation, collaboration, resilience, and a relentless commitment to surpassing challenges and accomplishing ambitious space initiatives. The team values humility, teamwork, and delivering results under pressure.

Compliance and Equality

Employment at Rocket Lab is based on equal opportunity principles without discrimination based on race, gender, age, or other protected characteristics. Compliance with space technology export laws like ITAR is required for U.S. positions, including citizenship or authorization requirements. Background and nationality checks apply for roles in New Zealand due to security regulations.