Sr. Sourcing Specialist, Mechanical (Starlink) - job 2 of 3

As a Sr. Sourcing Specialist at SpaceX, your main responsibilities will involve managing the procurement processes for mechanical components essential to the Starlink project. This includes placing purchase orders, forecasting demand, evaluating supplier performance, and developing sourcing strategies. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless production and delivery of parts.

To qualify as a Sr. Sourcing Specialist at SpaceX, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in purchasing or supply chain management. Alternatively, candidates with 4+ years of comparable experience without a degree may also be considered. Experience managing high-spend portfolios and familiarity with ERP systems are preferred.

Successful candidates for the Sr. Sourcing Specialist role at SpaceX should demonstrate strong analytical skills for data interpretation, proficient communication abilities, and an understanding of manufacturing processes. Additionally, experience with demand planning, contract management, and a strong ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment are critical for this position.

Yes, candidates applying for the Sr. Sourcing Specialist role at SpaceX should ideally have prior experience in procurement, supply chain management, or engineering. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing complex sourcing projects and driving cost reductions through effective supply chain strategies.

As a Sr. Sourcing Specialist at SpaceX, you can expect significant opportunities for career growth. This role not only allows you to hone your skills in sourcing and supply chain management but also positions you at the forefront of innovative projects like Starlink. The high-profile nature of this position provides a platform for advancement within the company, revealing pathways to more senior roles as you contribute to our mission.

When addressing vendor performance issues, it's essential to first assess the specific problems impacting delivery or quality. By collecting data on their performance, I identify whether the root cause lies in communication, capacity, or other factors. From there, I would have a direct and constructive discussion with the vendor, aiming to find collaborative solutions. My goal is always to maintain a constructive relationship while ensuring that SpaceX's needs are met.

In a previous role, I negotiated a significant contract with a supplier for custom parts. By thoroughly understanding the supplier's capabilities and our requirements, I prepared a detailed comparison of costs and delivery times. I approached the negotiation as a collaborative effort, focusing on building long-term relationships while driving down costs. As a result, we secured better terms and established a more reliable partnership moving forward.

For effective demand forecasting, I leverage historical data, market trends, and communication with cross-functional teams to gather insights. Utilizing tools like Excel and Power BI, I analyze patterns and identify potential fluctuations in demand. I also maintain a flexible approach, adjusting forecasts based on real-time inputs and feedback from manufacturing and sales teams to ensure accuracy.

When faced with competing projects, I assess each project's alignment with overall strategic goals and deadlines. I prioritize projects based on urgency, potential impact on production, and resource availability. Regular communication with stakeholders ensures alignment and allows me to adjust priorities as necessary while effectively managing timelines.

Data analysis is quintessential in forming effective sourcing strategies. It allows me to evaluate supplier performance, track pricing trends, and assess inventory levels. By analyzing this data, I can negotiate better contracts, anticipate demand needs, and identify areas for cost-saving, enabling the supply chain to run more efficiently.

I have a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles, which aids in interpreting engineering drawings and bills of materials. This knowledge is beneficial when collaborating with engineering teams, allowing me to make informed decisions regarding sourcing and production strategies, ensuring all components meet design specifications and performance requirements.

I have extensive experience using ERP systems for managing supply chain processes. These systems help me maintain accurate records of bills of materials, work orders, and purchase orders. Through ERP, I ensure real-time visibility into inventory levels, leading to better forecasting and procurement decisions, ultimately supporting production objectives.

In my previous role, I led a project that streamlined our supplier selection process by implementing a scoring system based on criteria such as delivery time, quality, and pricing. This systematic approach allowed us to quickly compare potential vendors and select those who best aligned with our needs, thus reducing lead times significantly while enhancing supplier performance.

I stay current with industry trends through continuous learning and engagement with professional organizations. Attending workshops, webinars, and conferences enhances my understanding of emerging technologies and best practices in supply chain management. I also subscribe to relevant industry publications and join professional networks to exchange knowledge with peers.

One of the most challenging aspects of supply chain management is managing uncertainty and demand variability. Factors like market fluctuations, supplier reliability, and potential disruptions can impact supply chains significantly. To tackle this challenge, I focus on building strong relationships with suppliers, maintaining flexibility in our sourcing strategies, and leveraging data analytics for predictive insights.