Sourcing Manager, Electronics (Starlink)

As a Sourcing Manager, Electronics at SpaceX, you'll be responsible for managing the demand plan and sourcing hardware for the Starlink satellite constellation. This entails developing sourcing and cost management strategies, aggregating demand data for accurate signals, interfacing with suppliers on RFIs and RFPs, and driving internal improvements. Your role is critical in ensuring supplier capabilities align with our production and development goals.

To qualify for the Sourcing Manager, Electronics position at SpaceX, you need a bachelor's degree alongside 5+ years of relevant experience in fields such as engineering, purchasing, or supply chain management. Alternatively, 7+ years in similar capacities is acceptable. Proficiency in handling electronic components and technical procurement is essential, alongside strong analytical and organizational skills.

SpaceX is deeply invested in the growth of its Sourcing Managers in the Electronics domain. Your development will be fostered through hands-on experience in fast-paced environments and team collaborations that drive project success. Additionally, the company offers a comprehensive rewards package that includes career development opportunities, bonuses, and stock options, ensuring you are supported in your professional journey.

In the Sourcing Manager role for Electronics at SpaceX, you will work closely with a variety of suppliers, especially those involved in manufacturing PCB, PCBA, and other electrical components. Your ability to manage supplier relationships will play a vital role in meeting production timelines and ensuring material quality that supports our Starlink project.

Key skills for a Sourcing Manager, Electronics at SpaceX include exceptional analytical abilities, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication, both verbal and written. Familiarity with procurement processes and supplier management is crucial, alongside the ability to adapt quickly in a fast-moving environment. Attention to detail and a self-motivated spirit are also important attributes for success in this role.

In discussing your experience with sourcing electronic components, highlight specific projects where you managed supplier relationships, negotiated contracts, or improved cost efficiencies. Share metrics that demonstrate your impact on product development timelines and production rates.

When answering this question, outline your approach to building relationships, understanding supplier capabilities, and aligning their objectives with your team's goals. Discuss techniques like RFP processes, regular check-ins, or performance assessments to maintain solid partnerships.

For this question, focus on your conflict resolution skills. Describe your process for addressing issues, ensuring open lines of communication, and working collaboratively to find solutions that benefit both your organization and the supplier.

Share a specific initiative you implemented that resulted in significant cost savings. Focus on the analysis you performed, the strategies you developed, and the outcomes achieved, providing quantifiable results if possible.

Discuss your methodology for utilizing data analysis in refining sourcing strategies. Highlight your experience with analytical tools and how data informs your decisions regarding supplier performance, demand forecasting, and cost management.

Identify effective methods you use to prioritize workflows, such as creating a task hierarchy or using project management tools. Provide examples from past experiences where your prioritization resulted in successful project completion.

Explain your negotiation strategy, focusing on preparing by understanding both your needs and the supplier’s interests. Emphasize your communication skills and how you build rapport to achieve win-win outcomes.

In answering this question, discuss the tools and methodologies you use for demand forecasting. Include how you collect and analyze data to identify trends and how you adjust your strategies based on evolving market needs.

Share specifics on how you have managed projects within sourcing. Discuss your ability to lead cross-functional teams, track progress against timelines, and adjust plans as necessary to meet production goals.

Discuss your strategies for assessing and ensuring supplier reliability, such as setting clear expectations, conducting regular reviews, and utilizing performance metrics to monitor their capabilities and responsiveness during the development phase.