Buyer II (Temporary) – Defense & Advanced TechnologyOverview

We are seeking a mid-level Buyer II to support high-technology defense and advanced engineering programs. In this role, you will manage end-to-end procurement activities for complex hardware across programs such as aircraft carriers, satellites, semiconductors, and advanced electronics.

This is a hands-on role requiring strong knowledge of FAR/DFARS compliance, supplier management, and high-volume purchase order execution. You’ll work in a collaborative team environment while independently managing a demanding procurement workload.

Key ResponsibilitiesExecute full-cycle procurement: requisition validation, sourcing, negotiation, PO issuance, and delivery trackingProcure parts, materials, equipment, and services supporting contracts and internal programsIdentify and develop qualified suppliers meeting cost, quality, and schedule requirementsLead competitive and sole-source procurements; prepare required documentation and justificationsAnalyze supplier quotes and proposals; perform cost and price analysisNegotiate pricing, terms, delivery schedules, and contractual requirementsManage high-volume workload (100 active POs) simultaneouslyMonitor order status, expedite deliveries, and resolve supplier performance issuesEnsure compliance with FAR, DFARS, and internal procurement policiesMaintain accurate, audit-ready records in SAP or equivalent ERP systemsSupport supplier onboarding, qualification, and performance evaluationServe as the primary procurement contact for assigned programsCollaborate cross-functionally with program management, engineering, and suppliersMentor junior buyers and provide procurement guidance as neededRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience)3–7 years of procurement/buyer experience, preferably in defense or high-tech environmentsStrong understanding of the full procurement lifecycleWorking knowledge of FAR/DFARS regulationsExperience managing high-volume purchase orders (50–100+)Proven ability to:Conduct supplier sourcing and evaluationsPerform cost/price analysisNegotiate contracts and delivery termsExperience procuring hardware such as electronics, semiconductors, assemblies, and PWBsProficiency with SAP or similar ERP systemsStrong communication, organization, and stakeholder management skillsAbility to work independently and in a fast-paced, team environmentPreferred QualificationsExperience supporting DoD or government-funded programsFamiliarity with defense supply base and compliance requirementsExperience with supplier onboarding and qualification processesAbility to present procurement strategies and findings to stakeholdersStrong attention to detail with an audit-ready mindsetWork EnvironmentFully onsite, collaborative team of 10 buyersFast-paced, high-visibility defense programsOccasional extended hours to meet deadlinesWhy This RoleExposure to cutting-edge defense and aerospace programsOpportunity to manage complex procurements across multiple commodity typesCollaborative team culture with strong peer supportJob Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $46.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job\n classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be\n subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits\n available for this temporary role may include the following:\n\n
• Medical, dental & vision\n
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital\n
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available\n
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)\n
• Short and long-term disability\n
• Health Spending Account (HSA)\n
• Transportation benefits\n
• Employee Assistance Program\n
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in San Diego,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 21, 2026.

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\nAbout Aston Carter\n\n

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.

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The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

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If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.

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San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

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Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

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