Mechanical Procurement Engineer Senior

Description We are seeking a technically capable and detail-oriented Senior Mechanical Procurement Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will apply your mechanical engineering knowledge — including a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production methods — to support strategic procurement decisions for build-to-print and prototype mechanical assemblies in support of Department of Defense (DoD) programs. You will work closely with program engineers, designers, and Procurement Buyers/Supply Chain Administrators (SCAs) to source, negotiate, and purchase machinery, equipment, tools, raw materials, parts, and supplies necessary for program operations. This is a collaborative, execution-focused role requiring solid technical judgment, strong analytical skills, and the ability to solve difficult procurement and engineering challenges in a dynamic defense contracting environment. This position is remote with 20% travel requirement. The Ideal Candidate - Has a solid mechanical engineering foundation with manufacturing process knowledge as a meaningful differentiator, and hands-on experience supporting build-to-print and prototype DoD programs with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings, GD&T, and TDPs - Brings strong analytical skills to cost analysis, price trend tracking, supplier performance monitoring, and risk mitigation while working collaboratively across engineering, procurement, supply chain, and quality teams - Is detail-oriented, exercises sound independent judgment, thrives in a remote environment, and is eager to grow supplier assessment and procurement engineering capabilities through hands-on experience What You Will Do: Technical Procurement & Engineering Support - Apply technical knowledge of mechanical systems design, analysis, and manufacturing processes 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) — leveraging manufacturing process knowledge to assess whether supplier approaches are technically feasible and cost-effective - Work with program engineers and designers to write Subcontractor Statements of Work (SOWs) and assist Procurement Buyers/SCAs in the preparation of RFPs and bid packages - Review supplier proposals and provide technical input to support source selection decisions Negotiation & Cost Analysis - Compile and analyze statistical data to determine feasibility of buying products and support the establishment of price objectives - Assist Procurement Buyers/SCAs with supplier negotiations, applying knowledge of manufacturing processes and production costs to analyze supplier operations and identify the lowest cost consistent with quality, reliability, and schedule requirements - Track price trends and manufacturing process information to evaluate opportunities to leverage material acquisitions in support of program budgets and schedules Supplier Management & Risk Mitigation - Closely monitor supplier performance, identify supplier risks, and develop mitigation plans to protect program schedules and budgets - Apply understanding of manufacturing processes and production capabilities to evaluate supplier capacity and identify potential production risks before they impact program deliverables - Travel to supplier facilities to support vendor evaluations and manufacturing process assessments — initially accompanied by senior engineering staff with a clear expectation to develop independent assessment capabilities over time - Collaborate with Supplier Quality Engineers and procurement teams to resolve supplier performance issues and represent the organization on difficult technical issues associated with specific projects Purchase Order Management & Program Execution - Follow up on orders placed, verify delivery, approve payment, and maintain accurate procurement records - Partner with Procurement Buyers/SCAs to ensure purchase orders 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 to proactively resolve challenges before they impact program milestones - Utilize ERP systems (Costpoint preferred) to manage procurement transactions, track open orders, and maintain accurate program data Why Join Us - Work on high-impact DoD programs that challenge and grow your technical and procurement expertise - Collaborate with talented engineers, procurement professionals, and senior leaders invested in your development - Enjoy a remote work environment where your contributions are valued and your growth is supported - Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and 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 is preferred; Manufacturing Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline is also welcomed - 5+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, procurement engineering, or a combination of both; Master's degree with 3+ years of related experience also considered - 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) - Hands-on familiarity with manufacturing processes and how production methods impact supplier capabilities, cost drivers, and program schedules - Working knowledge of procurement processes including RFP development, SOW writing, supplier negotiations, source selection, and contract execution - Ability to compile and analyze statistical and pricing data to support cost analysis and price objective development - Experience identifying and supporting mitigation of supplier and supply chain risks - Strong attention to detail and solid analytical, written, and verbal communication skills - Collaborative team player with the ability to work effectively across engineering, procurement, supply chain, and quality teams - Self-starter who manages priorities well under general direction and exercises sound independent judgment - Willingness and ability to travel approximately 20% of the time to supplier facilities - Ability to remain highly engaged, responsive, and proactive in a fully remote work environment - Location: Remote - Travel Requirements: Approximately 20% travel to supplier facilities required - Clearance Requirements: Active Secret security clearance required or ability to obtain one Preferred Qualifications - Experience in aerospace, defense, or government contracting with a working understanding of DoD program requirements and acquisition processes - Familiarity with FAR/DFARS regulations and government procurement requirements - Experience with Costpoint ERP system - Familiarity with SolidWorks for reviewing and interpreting 3D models and engineering designs - CPSM or equivalent supply chain/procurement certification is a plus - Exposure to ITAR-controlled programs or export-controlled materials is a plus - Demonstrated ability to leverage AI tools to improve procurement research, data analysis, cost tracking, and workflow efficiency