Purchasing Specialist

Summary

Vaya Space is a privately owned space and defense company headquartered on Florida’s Space Coast. We are advancing patented vortex-hybrid engine technology to deliver propulsion systems that meet the highest standards of safety, affordability, and sustainability. In the commercial market, our Dauntless launch vehicle provides reliable and cost-effective access to orbit. In defense, our hybrid propulsion systems support next-generation tactical, hypersonic, and missile defense applications.

The Purchasing Specialist supports VAYA’s supply chain and procurement operations by executing day-to-day purchasing activities. Reporting to the Supply Chain Specialist, this role is primarily responsible for obtaining supplier quotes, processing purchase requisitions, issuing purchase orders, and coordinating directly with vendors to ensure accurate, timely, and cost-effective procurement of materials and services. The position focuses on transactional excellence, supplier communication, and adherence to established procurement policies and procedures.

We are a fast-paced, mission-driven team tackling some of the hardest problems in aerospace. Success at Vaya requires personal leadership, strong technical skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Every team member contributes across disciplines, stepping up where needed to drive innovation forward. If you want to make an impact and help shape the future of space and defense, Vaya Space is the place to do it.

Travel Required

Up to 10%

Required Security Clearance

None (ITAR Eligible)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Process purchase requisitions from requestors and convert approved requests into accurate and timely purchase orders
Obtain supplier quotes or proposals for materials and services, compare pricing, lead times, and terms, and present recommendations as required
Issue purchase orders to approved and existing vendors in accordance with company policies and negotiated agreements
Communicate purchase order details to suppliers, including specifications, quantities, pricing, and delivery requirements
Monitor open purchase orders, track order acknowledgments, and follow up with vendors to ensure on-time delivery
Coordinate with receiving, inventory, and accounting teams to resolve discrepancies related to pricing, quantities, or delivery issues
Maintain accurate purchasing records, documentation, and supplier communications within the ERP
Support supplier performance tracking by reporting delivery issues, quality concerns, or pricing variances to the Supply Chain Specialist
Assist with routine supplier maintenance activities, including contact updates and documentation requests
Ensure purchasing activities comply with internal controls, approval workflows, and procedures/policies
Other duties as assigned by the Supply Chain Specialist

Qualifications

Prior experience in purchasing, procurement, or buyer role, with hands-on responsibility for requisitions, quoting, and purchase order processing
Working knowledge of purchasing and procurement best practices, including RFQs, purchase orders, and vendor coordination
Proficiency with ERP systems preferred
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, documentation, and order processing
Effective communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with internal teams and external suppliers
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple open orders and priorities in a fast-paced environment
Basic analytical skills to compare quotes, pricing, and lead times
Familiarity with inventory and receiving processes is a plus
Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
To comply with U.S. export regulations, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and the Export Administration Regulations you must (a) be a “U.S. Person” as defined under those regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents of the U.S., and protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (b) otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce, as appropriate.

Preferred Skills and Education

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Purchasing, or a related field preferred
Excellent organizational and leadership skills
Attention to detail.
Strong decision-making skills and a results-driven approach

Purchasing Specialist