Purchasing Manager – Direct Materials

About the role

Rocket Lab is seeking a Purchasing Manager to lead its direct‑material procurement team at the Auckland facility. The role supports the launch and space systems divisions, overseeing raw‑material commodities such as aluminum, composites and 3D‑printed materials.

Key responsibilities

• Build and manage a high‑performing procurement team focused on raw‑material commodities.
• Own end‑to‑end purchasing of direct materials for production demand and rapid engineering development.
• Develop and execute a global commodity strategy to achieve best‑in‑class cost, quality and delivery targets.
• Negotiate pricing on a first‑principles basis and create bottom‑up cost models.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing and supply‑chain partners to ensure material compliance and availability.

Required profile

• Proven experience building and leading procurement or supply‑chain teams.
• Strong background in direct‑material purchasing for aerospace or high‑tech manufacturing.
• Knowledge of machining commodities – aluminum, composites, and additive‑manufactured materials.
• Ability to operate in a fast‑growing, high‑pace environment supporting launch programs.

Required skills

• Commodity strategy development
• Pricing negotiation and cost modeling
• Supply‑chain management for raw materials

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge space launch and satellite programs.
• Leadership role in a rapidly expanding global aerospace company.
• Collaborative, mission‑driven culture with a focus on innovation.