Materials Program Manager I

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

The Materials Program Manager (MPM) is responsible for managing Purchasing activities for assigned programs, including strategic product and supplier strategies. The MPM manages the relationships between the program office(s) and the procurement organization.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels of Materials Program Manager. Each level of Materials Program Manager has additional duties and responsibilities listed.

Materials Program Manager I

• Monitors performance metrics and provides reports to Program Managers.
• Develops and maintains assigned performance metrics and provides reports as required.
• Tracks, monitors, and controls inventory for assigned programs.
• Provides input to the program EAC reviews including Purchasing risks and opportunities.
• Works intimately with Program Scheduling and Production Planning to develop and track procurement schedule and milestones.
• Produces weekly status reports and action items for the Procurement Manager and supporting Program Managers, as required. Recommends solutions for materials shortages and/or strategies related to program milestones and objectives.
• Supports the MPM II with analyzing quotes from different suppliers and supports the negotiation for best price and delivery schedule to meet program plan.
• Additional tasks and other duties may be assigned.
• Supports proposal reviews, EAC reviews, and program reviews. During proposal activities, helps MPM II to develop Purchasing Basis of Estimates (BOEis).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None

#LI-Onsite

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
• Ability to interact appropriately with the public, suppliers, and customers as necessary.
• Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
• Ability to effectively communicate professionally, in writing or verbally, with all levels of personnel.
• Ability to adjust priorities and manage time wisely in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to organize workload to assure that short timelines are met while having frequent interruptions; and to effectively problem solve from an institutional perspective.
• Ability to analyze data, business and program strategies, and other information to reach accurate conclusions.
• Ability to think analytically and produce accurate analysis, while applying good judgment to conduct assigned responsibilities accurately and effectively.
• Demonstrated knowledge of supply chain processes and related systems subcontract management, logistics, and asset management.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to convert Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) project schedule activities and tasking into executable discrete supply chain tasks.
• Demonstrated history in cost reduction and bidding techniques to maximize value.
• Proven abilities to negotiate with suppliers.
• Demonstrated knowledge the teaming agreement process.
• Thorough knowledge of purchasing techniques including strategic supplier concepts.
• Strong problem solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to drive solutions through an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment.
• Ability to convert business area and customer requirements into executable strategies.
• Excellent risk management methodologies and problem-solving techniques.
• Working knowledge of customer flow through requirements such as FAR/DFARS, ITAR, offset, FCPA, quality and warranty clauses.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint and MS Project).
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.

Preferred:

• Lean/Six Sigma Certification (Green or Black Belt).
• Subcontracts Management, minimum of 3 years of direct experience.
• Earned Value Management Systems experience.
• Familiarity with CINCOM is desirable.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required:

The education and experience listed below apply to and build upon all successive levels of Materials Program Manager.

Materials Program Manager I

• Bacheloris Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or Engineering.
• 2-5 years experience in Supplier Management or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Basic understanding of proposal Purchasing activities.
• Basic understanding of developing and managing program budgets.
• Strong computer skills in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• May be required to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information (requires US citizenship).

Preferred:

• Materials Program Manager Certification preferable.
• Market knowledge of, and experience with, Aerospace and Defense industry.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Primarily works in an office environment. May infrequently conduct work or attend/hold meeting in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, writing, phones).
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Up to 25% may be required to travel domestically.