Aerospace Purchasing Associate

Evans Composites, a division of Coltala Aerospace, is seeking a motivated Aviation Purchasing Associate to support the sourcing, purchasing, and management of aviation-related parts, equipment, and supplies. This role works closely with suppliers, manufacturers, and internal teams to ensure a reliable, efficient, and compliant supply chain. The Aviation Purchasing Associate is responsible for supplier coordination, contract negotiations, inventory management, and ensuring all purchasing activities meet applicable industry regulations and company standards. This opportunity is ideal for a driven professional looking to expand their technical and procurement expertise while building a long-term career in the aerospace industry.

Primary Responsibilities

Procurement & Sourcing:

• Identify and evaluate suppliers of aviation parts, equipment, and services.

• Negotiate purchase orders, prices, and terms with vendors and suppliers.

• Ensure that all purchases meet quality and safety standards required for aviation operations.

• Source and purchase various goods related to aircraft maintenance, operations, and other aviation services.

Inventory Management:

• Maintain accurate inventory records for aviation parts and supplies.

• Monitor stock levels and coordinate with relevant departments to replenish items in a timely manner.

• Implement inventory controls to minimize excess stock or shortages.

Vendor Relations:

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and manufacturers.

• Evaluate supplier performance, quality of products, and delivery reliability.

• Address issues with suppliers regarding delays, quality concerns, or pricing disputes.

Cost Management:

• Track and manage purchasing costs to ensure compliance with budgetary constraints.

• Prepare and analyze cost reports, identifying opportunities for cost-saving initiatives.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure that all purchased items comply with applicable aviation regulations, industry standards, and company policies.

• Maintain detailed records of purchase orders, contracts, and shipping documentation.

• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements for aviation-related goods.

Collaborative Work:

• Coordinate with aircraft maintenance teams, flight operations, and other internal departments to meet operational needs.

• Work closely with the finance department to ensure accurate invoicing and payment processing.

• Assist in the preparation of purchase forecasts to plan for future requirements.

Market Research & Analysis:

• Stay updated on the latest trends in aviation parts, equipment, and technology.

• Conduct market research to identify new suppliers and industry innovations that could improve operational efficiency.

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Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED, Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration is a plus but not required.

• Relevant certifications in procurement or supply chain management (e.g., APICS, CPSM, or ISM) are a plus.

• 2+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management, preferably within the aviation industry.

• Familiarity with aviation parts, maintenance requirements, and regulatory standards is highly desirable.

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Skills/Abilities Required

• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• In-depth knowledge of purchasing software, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and MS Office applications.

• Ability to analyze market trends, vendor pricing, and performance metrics.

• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

• Knowledge of aviation industry standards, safety regulations, and compliance requirements.

• Problem-solving skills to address issues related to procurement or supplier performance.

Working Conditions:

• May require occasional travel to supplier locations, maintenance facilities, or industry events.

• Typical office hours, but flexibility may be required based on operational demands.

• Occasional work in a warehouse or hangar environment may be necessary.

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