Global Supply Manager, Propulsion

What the role needs

• Develop and implement a comprehensive Propulsion Supply Chain Strategy, managing a specialized vendor base to optimize value, technical capability, production readiness, and long-term partnerships.
• Own initial demand planning and forecasting for propulsion systems and associated hardware across development, qualification, low-rate initial production (LRIP), and ramping production phases.
• Conduct comprehensive supply chain assessments to support material readiness through all production phases, including development, qualification, ramp-up, and sustainment.
• Develop sourcing strategies to mitigate risk, reduce cost, and improve resilience for long-lead, specialized, and single-source energetics systems, propulsion hardware, and critical materials.
• Drive supplier accountability for performance, including quality, cost, technical execution, and on-time delivery; manage open orders, resolve supply issues, and triage supplier non-conformances (NCRs).
• Conduct regular onsite supplier engagements to assess manufacturing readiness, resolve technical and operational constraints, and support industrialization efforts across energetics programs.
• Support supplier manufacturing readiness reviews, qualification planning, process capability assessments, and production ramp strategies for energetics systems and propulsion hardware.
• Negotiate contracts in collaboration with legal and compliance teams, ensuring alignment with ITAR, EAR, NDAA, hazardous material transport requirements, and other regulatory frameworks.
• Monitor and report on supply chain health using KPIs, and implement supplier performance improvement programs.
• Drive and assist in the development of advanced supply chain, industrialization, and supplier management processes that elevate the overall organization.
• Support broader supply chain activities beyond mechanical systems, including sourcing, procurement, and material planning for adjacent hardware categories as needed to meet overall program objectives.
• Provide regular briefings to leadership on propulsion supply chain performance, risks, industrialization status, and mitigation strategies.

From the employer

About Mach Industries Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. The Role Mach Industries is seeking a strategic and technically adept Global Supply Manager to lead the sourcing, planning, and execution of all supply chain activities related to propulsion systems supporting our platforms. This role is responsible for developing and implementing category and supplier strategies, managing supplier performance, and ensuring the timely delivery of critical hardware and materials—including solid rocket motor systems, propulsion structures, energetics and ignition hardware, mechanical assemblies, and specialized long-lead materials—across all phases of development, qualification, test, and production. The ideal candidate will bring strong mechanical and advanced manufacturing supply chain experience, along with familiarity supporting propulsion and energetics hardware development. They should possess exceptional cross-functional collaboration skills and a proven ability to operate effectively within complex propulsion and energetics manufacturing environments while optimizing cost, quality, and lead time in a fast-paced defense environment. Key Responsibilities Lead the end-to-end supply chain strategy and execution for propulsion systems supporting Mach platforms, including solid rocket motor systems, propellant manufacturing, propulsion structures, thermal protection hardware, ignition systems, and associated qualification and test hardware. Develop and implement a comprehensive Propulsion Supply Chain Strategy, managing a specialized vendor base to optimize value, technical capability, production readiness, and long-term partnerships. Identify and onboard new suppliers to address capability or capacity gaps, and establish preferred suppliers for assigned energetics categories. Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Program Management, Manufacturing, Test, and Procurement to ensure timely sourcing, qualification, integration, and delivery of energetics systems aligned with program milestones and flight or ground test campaigns. Become technically fluent in the propulsion manufacturing processes, including propulsion system manufacturing, high-temperature materials and processes, propellant-related manufacturing, and qualification testing activities to support design-for-supply-chain and industrialization initiatives. Own initial demand planning and forecasting for propulsion systems and associated hardware across development, qualification, low-rate initial production (LRIP), and ramping production phases. Conduct comprehensive supply chain assessments to support material readiness through all production phases, including development, qualification, ramp-up, and sustainment. Develop sourcing strategies to mitigate risk, reduce cost, and improve resilience for long-lead, specialized, and single-source energetics systems, propulsion hardware, and critical materials. Drive supplier accountability for performance, including quality, cost, technical execution, and on-time delivery; manage open orders, resolve supply issues, and triage supplier non-conformances (NCRs). Conduct regular onsite supplier engagements to assess manufacturing readiness, resolve technical and operational constraints, and support industrialization efforts across energetics programs. Support supplier manufacturing readiness reviews, qualification planning, process capability assessments, and production ramp strategies for energetics systems and propulsion hardware. Negotiate contracts in collaboration with legal and compliance teams, ensuring alignment with ITAR, EAR, NDAA, hazardous material transport requirements, and other regulatory frameworks. Monitor and report on supply chain health using KPIs, and implement supplier performance improvement programs. Drive and assist in the development of advanced supply chain, industrialization, and supplier management processes that elevate the overall organization. Support broader supply chain activities beyond mechanical systems, including sourcing, procurement, and material planning for adjacent hardware categories as needed to meet overall program objectives. Provide regular briefings to leadership on propulsion supply chain performance, risks, industrialization status, and mitigation strategies. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain/Operations Management, Business, or equivalent. ( 10+ years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. ) 5+ years of supply chain experience, with a focus on mechanical, aerospace hardware, advanced manufacturing, or other technically complex hardware categories. Previous experience with propulsion systems a plus. Proven experience in supplier management, sourcing strategy, and contract negotiation Strong understanding of MRP/ERP systems and demand planning processes Familiarity with defense industry compliance requirements, including ITAR, EAR, and NDAA a plus Ability to interpret complex BOMs and collaborate with engineering on design-for-procurement initiatives Experience operating in development, qualification, or production environments with rapidly evolving technical requirements. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills Preferred Qualifications Active Secret security clearance or ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance. Experience in supply chain management for unmanned systems, robotics, or aerospace applications. Deep expertise in energetics (munitions/missile/ordnance/payload). Hands-on experience with supplier qualification and performance management in a defense or high-reliability environment. Advanced knowledge of regulatory frameworks such as ITAR, EAR, and NDAA, with a track record of ensuring compliance. Proficiency in advanced supply chain analytics and optimization tools. Experience supporting rapid production ramps and scalable manufacturing operations. Additional Requirements Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here . Pay Range $125,000 — $195,000 USD At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends. Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy: Competitive Salaries : We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location. Performance-Based Incentives : Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel. Equity Participation : We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company. Benefit Packages : Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office. Professional Development : We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth. Transparency : We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect. By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success. Data Privacy To view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy . Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!