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Strategic Sourcing Manager, Electronics

Shield AI· Aircraft Operations Division – Supply Chain
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Dallas, TX$105k - $140kFull Time EmployeePosted 7mo ago

About the role

Lead global sourcing strategy, supplier management, and cost optimization for Shield AI’s electronics and electromechanical commodities, partnering with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and program management to ensure supply continuity, competitive costs, and a robust supplier base for current and future product lines.

Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership
  • - Develop and execute the long-term sourcing strategy for electronic and electromechanical components, including PCBAs, harnesses, connectors, sensors, and embedded systems.
  • - Own the supplier category roadmap — balancing cost, technology, capacity, and risk management across global supply chains.
  • - Drive make-vs-buy analyses and business cases that optimize total cost of ownership (TCO) and mitigate single-source risk.
  • - Establish sourcing policies, metrics, and governance aligned with corporate and program-level goals.
  • Supplier Management
  • - Identify, qualify, and develop a strategic supplier base capable of supporting high-mix, low-to-medium volume production for aerospace and defense applications.
  • - Negotiate and manage long-term agreements (LTAs), supplier performance reviews, and cost-reduction initiatives.
  • - Lead supplier business reviews and quarterly operating reviews (QBRs) focusing on delivery, quality, cost, and technical capability.
  • - Partner with Supplier development and Engineering to ensure AS9100 compliance, FAI completion, and audit readiness.
  • Cross-Functional Execution
  • - Collaborate with Engineering to ensure early supplier involvement (ESI) during product development and NPI phases.
  • - Work closely with Operations and Program Teams to align material readiness with production schedules and customer milestones.
  • - Partner with Finance and Legal to structure commercial terms, manage supplier liabilities, and ensure compliance with DFARS, ITAR, and export regulations.
  • - Support supply risk management and business continuity planning across all electronics categories.
  • Data & Process Ownership
  • - Lead cost modeling, benchmarking, and should-cost analysis to guide sourcing decisions.
  • - Utilize ERP/MRP and analytics tools to manage spend visibility, supplier KPIs, and material forecasting accuracy.
  • - Develop and mentor a high-performing sourcing team focused on execution excellence, supplier innovation, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Electrical Engineering, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred) or equivalent relevant experience
  • 7+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or supply chain management with a focus on electronics, PCBA, or electromechanical commodities OR mechanical commodities
  • Proven experience in defense, aerospace, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
  • Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, and long-term contract management
  • Deep understanding of electronics manufacturing processes, including PCB fabrication, SMT assembly, and harness production OR mechanical commodities
  • Strong business acumen with ability to translate technical and commercial data into strategic sourcing actions
  • Excellent communication, influencing, and cross-functional leadership skills

Skills

Required:Strategic sourcingSupplier negotiationsCost modeling / should-cost analysis
Nice to have:Knowledge of DFARS/ITAR/export controls

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • Temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Shield AI

Autonomy for the world.

Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.

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