PURCHASER II
Position Summary:
The Purchaser II is a mid-level procurement professional responsible for purchasing goods, materials, components, and services in support of production, engineering, and business operations. This role ensures that procurement activities meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives while maintaining accurate purchasing data within the ERP/MRP system. The Purchaser II works cross-functionally with Engineering, Planning, Quality, Finance, and Suppliers to resolve issues, support new projects, and drive continuous improvement in procurement performance.
Responsibilities and Duties
Purchase goods, materials, components, and services in alignment with cost, quality, and delivery requirements
Proactively communicate supply constraints, delays, or risks to internal stakeholders to minimize business impact
Serve as a primary interface between Suppliers and internal departments on purchasing processes, new projects, and ongoing activities
Collaborate with Engineering and Suppliers to reduce material costs and improve quality
Ensure Purchase Order due dates, pricing, and terms are accurate and valid
Maintain accurate cost, lead time, and supplier data within the ERP/MRP system
Work with Planning and Engineering to implement and support engineering changes
Support ERP/MRP system development, implementation, and ongoing improvements
Identify and resolve procurement-related issues, including shortages, supplier performance, and system discrepancies
Partner with Suppliers and Engineering to resolve material quality issues
Work with Finance to resolve accounts payable and invoice discrepancies
Perform work primarily in an office environment
Required Qualifications and Skills
High School diploma or equivalent required; AA or BS degree preferred
1–3 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment
Hands-on experience using a formal MRP/ERP system for procurement activities
Ability to read, understand, and analyze MRP reports and time-phased requirements
Familiarity with inventory control methods and production control techniques
Experience establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with Suppliers
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical documentation
Proven ability to negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery for materials and services
Strong cost analysis skills, including evaluating cost/quantity trade-offs
Proficiency with Windows-based computer systems
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with internal teams and Suppliers
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to interpret written, verbal, diagrammatic, and schedule-based instructions
Ability to work collaboratively with Engineering to define optimal procurement solutions and implement changes
Preferred Qualifications
APICS, NAPM, or similar supply chain certification or training
Experience supporting new product introductions (NPI) or engineering-driven projects
Familiarity with electronics manufacturing environments
Knowledge of commercial electronics manufacturing practices and components
Comprehensive Benefits & Perks
Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.
Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!
Company Overview
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.
At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel
the aerospace industry forward.
**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**
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ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.
E-Verify participation required for employment.
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Must be able to pass background check.
Hiring Range: $31.25/hr - $36.05/hr (DOE)
Top Skills
What We Do
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. (ESAero), an aerospace engineering design and manufacturing company, specializes in cost-effective development of innovative and advanced concepts, with emphasis on simple honesty and a track record of commitment. Since 2003, ESAero has served the needs of the engineering industry through its work on military and commercial conceptual air vehicle designs, electric and hybrid propulsion system development, aircraft modifications, sub-scale technology demonstrators, rapid system prototyping, design for manufacturing, low-rate initial production, manufacturing, and niche engineering support. An “Advanced Design Group to Advanced Design Groups”, ESAero is the Prime Contractor and Integrator of the NASA X-57 “Maxwell” all-electric airplane. ESAero customers include multiple NASA Centers, AFRL, AMRDEC, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, General Atomics, Electricore, and AeroVironment. With a 32,000 sq.ft. design & manufacturing facility located in San Luis Obispo, CA and an 8,000 sq.ft. integration and test location at the Oceano (CA) County Airport (L52), ESAero has expanded operations and airport space for system testing and product development. ESAero will continue to provide the aviation and aerospace industries with cutting-edge systems solutions and optimized manufacturing practices.
With an emphasis on quality, cost, and/or time, ESAero performs design, analytical, prototyping, and testing services for systems ranging from conceptual aerospace designs to aircraft seeking supplemental type certificates.
• Proven solutions that focus on the quality of results
• Rapid system development
• Hands-on development/testing to achieve customer goals
• “Out-of-the-Box” thinking and engineering
• Customized project plans structured for efficiency to meet larger program goals of cost or time
• On-demand niche engineering team to supplement ongoing projects
For more information, please visit our website at www.esaero.com or call (805) 275-1053.






