Description We are seeking a highly experienced and technically skilled Mechanical Procurement Engineer Sr. Principal to join our team. In this senior-level role, you will serve as a critical bridge between our engineering programs and supply chain organization, applying deep technical expertise in mechanical systems to drive strategic procurement decisions in support of build-to-print and prototype mechanical assemblies for the Department of Defense (DoD). You will work closely with program engineers, designers, and Procurement Buyers/Supply Chain Administrators (SCAs) to ensure the successful sourcing, negotiation, and acquisition of machinery, equipment, and materials necessary to meet program objectives. This is a high-impact, highly autonomous role that requires exceptional technical judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to solve complex procurement and engineering challenges with innovative solutions. What You Will Do: Technical Procurement Engineering Support Apply advanced knowledge of mechanical systems design and analysis to support sourcing decisions, SOW development, RFP preparation, and supplier proposal evaluations for build-to-print and prototype DoD assemblies Read and interpret technical drawings, GD T, engineering notes, and Technical Data Packages (TDPs) to ensure supplier understanding and compliance with program requirements Manage and track engineering redlines and drawing updates, ensuring changes are accurately captured, reviewed, and dispositioned in a timely manner Maintain and manage PLM system data (Aras, Windchill) including drawing releases, revision control, and engineering change management to ensure procurement activities are always aligned with the latest approved technical baseline Process Development, Measurement Auditing Lead the creation and documentation of procurement engineering processes and work instructions to standardize supplier sourcing, evaluation, and management activities Establish KPIs and performance metrics to measure process effectiveness and drive continuous improvement Conduct regular process audits to ensure compliance, identify gaps, and implement corrective actions Supplier Management, Quality Risk Mitigation Monitor supplier performance and actively support supplier quality activities including audits, corrective actions, and first article inspections Identify and mitigate supplier risks, ensuring suppliers meet quality management requirements including AS9100 and ISO 9001 Collaborate with Supplier Quality Engineers to resolve non-conformances and drive improvement at the supplier level Travel to supplier facilities to conduct vendor evaluations, audit manufacturing processes, and perform capacity and capability assessments to ensure suppliers can meet program requirements for DoD build-to-print and prototype manufacturing Purchase Order Management Logistics Coordination Partner with Procurement Buyers/SCAs to provide technical oversight across the purchase order lifecycle, ensuring POs accurately reflect technical requirements and are executed in alignment with program standards, schedule, and budget objectives Serve as a technical liaison between engineering, procurement, and logistics teams, monitoring material flow and proactively engaging to resolve technical, schedule, or delivery challenges before they impact program milestones Utilize ERP systems (Costpoint preferred) to manage procurement transactions, track open orders, monitor budgets, and maintain accurate program data Negotiation Cost Analysis Support Procurement Buyers/SCAs in supplier negotiations and source selection, leveraging technical knowledge to challenge cost positions and establish price objectives Analyze pricing trends, manufacturing processes, and supplier operations to identify cost reduction opportunities and optimize material acquisitions in support of DoD program budgets and schedules Strategic Planning Leadership Participate with senior managers in developing strategic plans and objectives for the procurement engineering function Influence without organizational authority to build consensus and drive alignment across engineering, procurement, supply chain, and quality teams Serve as an organizational spokesperson on advanced technical and procurement matters Program Execution Administration Apply exceptional attention to detail in reviewing technical documents, contracts, SOWs, and procurement records to ensure accuracy and completeness Self-initiate assignments and make independent decisions to ensure effective achievement of program and organizational objectives The Ideal Candidate Is a technically strong mechanical engineer with hands-on experience supporting build-to-print and prototype manufacturing programs for the DoD, and understands how engineering decisions directly drive procurement outcomes and supplier performance Can read and interpret complex TDPs, manage drawing redlines and revisions, and ensure the technical baseline is accurately reflected in procurement and PLM systems Builds processes, measures their effectiveness, and holds the organization accountable through structured audits and data-driven metrics Earns trust and drives results across engineering, supply chain, logistics, and quality teams without relying on formal authority Is detail-oriented, self-directed, and comfortable traveling to supplier facilities to evaluate manufacturing capabilities firsthand Why Join Us Work on high-impact DoD programs involving build-to-print and prototype mechanical assemblies that challenge and grow your technical and procurement expertise Collaborate with a team of talented engineers, procurement professionals, and senior leaders Enjoy a highly autonomous work environment where your expertise and judgment are trusted and valued Competitive compensation package including salary, bonus, and comprehensive benefits Opportunities for continued professional development and career advancement Contribute to programs that support our national defense and make a meaningful difference Qualifications Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline 12+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, procurement engineering, or a combination of both Demonstrated experience supporting build-to-print and/or prototype manufacturing programs, preferably in a DoD or defense contracting environment Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, GD T, and Technical Data Packages (TDPs) Experience managing engineering redlines, drawing updates, and revision control within a PLM environment Strong experience with procurement processes including RFP development, SOW writing, supplier negotiations, source selection, and contract execution Demonstrated experience providing technical oversight of purchase orders and coordinating with logistics and procurement teams to ensure on-time delivery Demonstrated experience in supplier quality activities such as audits, corrective actions, and first article inspections Working knowledge of AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 quality management standards and their application in a manufacturing and supplier management environment Experience identifying and mitigating supplier and supply chain risks Proven ability to create, implement, and audit processes, establish KPIs, and drive continuous improvement Working knowledge of ERP and PLM systems (e.g., Aras, Windchill) for managing procurement, engineering data, and drawing configuration control Ability to influence without organizational authority and drive alignment across cross-functional teams Exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills Self-starter with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision Willingness and ability to travel to supplier facilities for vendor evaluations, manufacturing process audits, and capacity and capability reviews Active Secret security clearance required Preferred Qualifications: Experience in aerospace, defense, or government contracting environments with a strong understanding of DoD program requirements and acquisition processes Familiarity with FAR/DFARS regulations and government procurement requirements Experience with Costpoint ERP system Proficiency in SolidWorks for reviewing and interpreting 3D models and engineering designs in support of procurement activities Professional certifications such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or equivalent supply chain/procurement certification Experience supporting ITAR-controlled programs or working with export-controlled materials and technologies Compensation Benefits: Competitive base salary commensurate with experience Annual performance bonus Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off and holidays Tuition reimbursement and professional development support Work Location Requirements: Location: remote Work Schedule: Full-time Travel Requirements: Travel to supplier facilities required for vendor evaluations, manufacturing process audits, and capacity and capability reviews 20-30% of time Clearance Requirements: Active Secret security clearance required Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
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