Senior R&D Supply Chain Specialist

We are looking for a highly driven and technically proficient Senior R&D Supply Chain Specialist to join our fast-moving Global Supply Chain Organization in support of engineering. This role sits at the center of rapid hardware development, supporting engineering teams designing and building complex electronic systems under tight, shifting timelines.

You will operate with a startup mindset—moving quickly, removing obstacles, identifying creative sourcing paths, and keeping development builds on track despite evolving designs, supply volatility, and aggressive schedules. You must be comfortable with ambiguity, thrive under pressure, and bring a deep understanding of electronics, PCB manufacturing, and hardware prototyping.

Expected Outcomes & Responsibilities

High-Velocity Engineering Support

• Serve as the hands-on supply chain counterpart for fast-paced electronics engineering teams working on multiple, rapidly evolving hardware projects.
• Translate early-stage concepts, evolving BOMs, and mid-design changes into actionable sourcing steps with minimal delay.
• Provide engineers with real-time insights on component availability, alternates, obsolescence, and quick-turn manufacturing options.
• Identify supply issues before they become blockers and propose workaround paths immediately.

Rapid Sourcing & Procurement Execution

• Own sourcing and procurement for electronic components, PCB fabrication, PCBA assembly, connectors, sensors, RF parts, embedded modules, and custom mechanical parts.
• React quickly to BOM updates and design pivots, securing materials that keep prototype and pilot builds moving with minimal downtime.
• Manage relationships with agile suppliers capable of quick-turn, small-batch production.
• Lead efforts to find alternative components or new supply paths within hours—not weeks—when shortages occur.

Supplier Interaction & Technical Engagement

• Work closely with electronics suppliers to understand lead time constraints, technical manufacturing capabilities, DFM implications, and opportunities for fast-track builds.
• Support technical capability assessments of PCB/PCBA vendors, machining partners, and component distributors.
• Negotiate accelerated manufacturing slots, expedite shipments, and secure prototypes under extremely compressed timelines.

Cross-Functional Start-Up Collaboration

• Coordinate across engineering, manufacturing, program management, and operations to remove obstacles and maintain build readiness.
• Maintain complete visibility into prototype schedules, engineering changes, and material risks—communicating clearly and frequently.
• Operate with a bias for action: if something is unclear, you chase it; if something breaks, you fix it; if something is missing, you find it.

Agility, Risk Management & Continuous Improvement

• Build and maintain a living view of supply risks across all active programs; proactively propose mitigation actions.
• Keep sourcing documentation, cost tracking, and procurement data updated even under fast-moving conditions.
• Bring an experimentation mindset: test new suppliers, new sourcing channels, new manufacturing partners, and new tools to reduce lead times and cost.

Expected Competencies & Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, Supply Chain, or similar.
• 5+ years of direct experience in electronics sourcing, component procurement, or engineering supply chain roles in fast-moving hardware environments.
• Strong technical understanding of semiconductors, passive components, PCB fabrication, PCBA assembly, embedded electronics, and prototyping flows.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in startup-like conditions—tight deadlines, shifting priorities, and rapid cycles.
• Hands-on experience interpreting electronic schematics, BOMs, AVL requirements, PCB stackups, and manufacturing documentation.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and engineering/project tools.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and negotiation abilities.

Advantageous To Have These Competencies

• Experience in hardware startups, deep-tech environments, or fast-paced R&D organizations.
• Existing relationships with PCB/PCBA vendors, distributors, and electronics manufacturing partners.
• Certifications (APICS, PMP, Six Sigma) useful but not required.
• Familiarity with rapid-prototyping suppliers, global component marketplaces, and digital sourcing tools.