Supply Chain Manager

Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:

Benchmark Space Systems, a leader in small satellite propulsion systems and in-space mobility services, is looking for a motivated, detail-oriented Supply Chain Manager to join our Operations team.

This role will work closely with the production, engineering, and quality teams. In this role you will help with locating key suppliers, negotiating Benchmark’s purchasing agreements and making sure their materials and products meet required specifications. This position is ideal for a self‑driven individual with strong attention to detail and the ability to execute multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

This is an on-site role at our headquarters in Burlington, Vermont.

About Benchmark:

At Benchmark Space Systems, we’re pioneering the future of in-space mobility. Our propulsion technologies provide satellites the ability to maneuver, avoid collisions, and maximize mission potential—all while contributing to a safer, more sustainable space environment.

Backed by recent funding and a growing slate of new flight contracts for government and commercial customers, we’re building a workplace where bold ideas and passionate people thrive. Engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers at Benchmark tackle some of the toughest challenges in spaceflight, working together to turn cutting-edge concepts into real-world solutions. If you're ready to help shape the next era of spaceflight, there's never been a better time to join Benchmark Space Systems.

Measurements of Success/Primary Job Responsibilities:

At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast-paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to solve problems, not be afraid to ask questions and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, there are primary job responsibilities and measurements of success for this position, which are:

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for critical components, materials, and services.
• Develop and implement tactical action plans including, but not limited to, supplier negotiations, Requests for Information (RFI), and Requests for Quotation (RFQ).
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and long-term agreements to optimize total cost of ownership.
• Lead supplier risk assessments and mitigation strategies, especially for single-source items.
• Identify, onboard, and manage supplier relationships to meet quality, cost, delivery, and performance objectives.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) efforts by developing supplier and material strategies for new designs.

Supplier Quality & Performance Management

• Partner with quality teams to ensure supplier qualification and adherence to specifications.
• Implement supplier performance metrics (on-time delivery, quality, responsiveness).

Procurement Operations

• Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions for materials, supplies, and equipment.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Supply Chain Planning & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Support forecasting, MRP, and inventory management to balance production readiness with working capital efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and program teams to align supply plans with build schedules.
• Work closely with engineering, finance, quality, and operations teams to ensure alignment and execution.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Develop and refine supply chain processes to support scaling operations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost, quality, and cycle time reduction.
• Implement best practices and tools (ERP/MRP systems) to enhance visibility and control.
• Draft and implement purchasing and contract management policies, procedures, and work instructions.

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, engineering, business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a supply chain, procurement, or operations role, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.
• Strong experience with supplier negotiation, contract management, and sourcing strategy.
• U.S. Person Requirement: Due to the nature of the work and access to export-controlled information, applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. export control laws. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, or similar).
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
• Thorough understanding of materials and supplies used in the company.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

What makes you stand out:

• Master’s degree in business administration, operations management, supply chain, engineering technology, or a related field.
• Experience supporting multiple operational functions (production, quality, supply chain, logistics, facilities).
• Prior experience in aerospace, hardware development, robotics, manufacturing, or another complex, highly regulated industry.
• Strong customer service orientation and ability to represent the company professionally during vendor or customer visits and program interactions.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (100% coverage for individuals, 80% for families).
• Vision & Dental Insurance.
• Company paid life, AD&D, and disability insurances.
• Voluntary Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible schedule.
• Unlimited vacation.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:

• Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 50 lbs. occasionally (e.g., boxes, components, facility supplies).
• Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, reach, and kneel.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer or completing documentation work.

Benchmark Space Systems is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative environment with the best employees. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please contact us at careers @benchmark-space.com