Sourcing Manager

Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. About the Role Firestorm Labs is seeking a proactive and strategic Sourcing Manager to join our growing team in San Diego. In this high-impact role, you will drive innovative sourcing strategies and lead engagements across a wide range of commodities, helping our next-generation hardware and integrated systems move from prototype to full-rate global production. You will work closely with engineering, product, and business development teams to optimize performance, ensure exceptional quality, and enable rapid launch and scale of mission-critical programs.
This is a hands-on role where your ability to navigate complex supplier ecosystems, mitigate risk, and maintain compliance with DoD, ITAR, FAR/DFARS, and cybersecurity requirements will directly impact Firestorm’s success. You will play a key role in expanding our global supplier network, adding resiliency and capacity to meet the needs of customers worldwide, while supporting fast-paced, high-visibility programs in a highly collaborative environment. What You'll Do

• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives across all commodities, developing innovative strategies that drive cost-effective procurement from New Product Introduction (NPI) through prototype and production scale-up, ensuring programs launch and scale efficiently.
• Identify, qualify, and onboard suppliers that meet engineering, DoD, cybersecurity, and regulatory requirements, while expanding Firestorm’s global supplier network to improve capacity, resiliency, and performance.
• Manage the full RFP process, evaluate proposals, negotiate commercial terms and contracts, create award recommendations, and establish agreements that optimize cost, quality, and delivery performance.
• Analyze supplier data, conduct market research, and benchmark industry best practices to identify opportunities for expanding the Approved Supplier List and improving the supply base.
• Monitor and manage supplier performance across quality, cost, and delivery, proactively mitigating risks and escalating issues to maintain mission-critical program timelines and meet strict production schedules.
• Ensure sourcing activities comply with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, NIST 800-171, and internal policies, while supporting internal and external audits, including DCAA/DCMA reviews, supplier quality audits, and cybersecurity assessments.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, product, and business development teams to align sourcing strategies with the product roadmap, forecasted demand, and future revenue streams, ensuring all programs meet business, technical, and financial goals.
• Support engineering and operations in identifying and qualifying suppliers for specialized technologies, additive manufacturing, and advanced hardware systems, contributing to R&D procurement and prototype builds.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by implementing procedural enhancements, standardizing sourcing processes, and identifying opportunities to increase efficiency, quality, and supplier engagement across programs.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and customers to ensure seamless acquisition of materials and services, maintaining transparency and collaboration throughout complex, fast-paced programs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, supply chain, business or a related field
• 5+ years of progressive supply chain or sourcing experience in a manufacturing or technology environment
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations
• Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) and Product Lifecycle Change Management processes.
• Hands-on experience sourcing and procuring commodities for domestic and international production builds.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering BOMs.
• Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations, cost reduction, and supplier performance management.
• Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and U.S. Government acquisition regulations.
• Ability to learn quickly, apply new concepts accurately, and manage evolving priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities
• Clear and professional communication with technical and non-technical users

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of sourcing or supply chain experience in aerospace, defense, or high-tech hardware industries.
• Demonstrated experience interfacing with DCAA, DCMA, or other U.S. Government oversight agencies.
• International sourcing experience (e.g., East or South Asia).
• Manufacturing or quality management experience.
• Exposure to additive manufacturing, automation, or advanced hardware environments.
• Understanding of supply chain risk management and supplier contingency planning.
• Knowledge of forecasting tools, procurement analytics, and market benchmarking.
• Experience supporting R&D procurement and prototype builds.
• Experience in an early-stage tech or startup environment
• Ability to influence change and adapt processes as business needs evolve
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment

Additional Requirements

• This role requires frequent travel; up to 35% within a calendar year.

Work Environment

• This role is based in San Diego, CA.
• We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.
Compensation
U.S. Range: $134,000 - $158,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.

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