Purchasing Manager-Optics, Electronics, and Computer Hardware chez QuEra Computing, Inc.

Purchasing Manager – Optics, Electronics, and Computer Hardware

Location: Boston Ma
Employment Type: Full-time

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead sourcing and procurement activities for highly sophisticated optical components, electronics contract manufacturing, and computer hardware to support our Quantum Computer Builds. While fluency across all three areas is not expected, the ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in at least one domain, combined with familiarity with concepts in manufacturing material planning, international logistics, supplier NPI’s and quality. This role will be the first of its kind at QuEra in the novel Quantum Computing industry. The Operations team is small, so this is an opportunity to get in on the ground floor and build the future. The ideal candidate should come in with the mindset of rolling up their sleeves building out a best in class purchasing program. There is no problem too big or task too small for this person.

Key Responsibilities

• Own supplier relationships primarily for specialized optics, electronics assemblies, and computer hardware.
• Negotiate payment, pricing, and delivery terms with domestic and international vendors.
• Develop and execute RFI’s, RFP’s, and RFQ’s for novel optical and laser componentry. Work with established and new suppliers on New Product Introduction (NPI).
• Create and monitor PO’s and report to stakeholders on delivery and timing of inbound materials.
• Work with the Inventory Manager to maintain optimal inventory levels of backstock items.
• Troubleshoot inbound Customs Clearence issues with logistics firms and vendors.
• Manage Warrantees and coordinate  RMA’s with the technical teams. Work with the vendors to see RMA’s to their conclusion.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in sourcing, cost reduction, and supplier performance.
• Work with the Finance and Accounting team to optimize cashflow and make QuEra’s purchasing data audit ready.  

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of purchasing/procurement experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Startup experience is not required but strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of at least one of the following:
• Precision optics and optical components
• Electronics contract manufacturing (PCBs, assemblies, sub-systems)
• Computer hardware (servers, networking, high-performance systems)
• Microsoft 365 experience required (Excel). Advanced Microsoft applications (Power BI, Power Automate, Visio, etc) a plus.
• COTS planning and procurement experience.
• Working knowledge of materials planning (MRP/ERP systems) required. ERP implementation experience a plus.  
• An understanding of international logistics, including customs clearance.
• Proven track record of negotiating and managing supplier relationships.
• RMA management and understanding of supplier quality concepts a plus.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Bachelor’s degree (preferred but not required).

QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.