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Materials Manager

RITEC, Simi Valley, CA, United States


RITEC is a specialized aerospace and defense manufacturer focused on rugged computing systems, secure networking hardware, and mission‑critical printing solutions designed for extreme environments. Our products are deployed across airborne, shipboard, and ground‑based platforms where performance, reliability, and durability are non‑negotiable.

We operate as a highly agile, engineering‑driven organization where cross‑functional collaboration and ownership are essential.

Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced

Materials Manager

to lead procurement, inventory control, and supply chain operations across our manufacturing programs. This role is critical to ensuring on‑time delivery, cost control, and compliance with aerospace and defense standards. You’ll be working closely with engineering, production, and executive leadership to support both ongoing programs and new product development.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all materials planning, procurement, and inventory control functions

Manage supplier relationships, pricing, and lead‑time negotiations

Oversee MRP system accuracy, BOM alignment, and material availability

Drive cost reduction initiatives and improve inventory turns

Ensure compliance with aerospace/defense requirements (traceability, documentation, etc.)

Coordinate closely with engineering on new product introductions (NPI)

Identify and mitigate supply chain risks (obsolescence, long lead items, single‑source dependencies)

Manage and mentor materials, purchasing, and inventory staff

Qualifications

5+ years experience

as a Materials Manager (or similar leadership role)

Background in

aerospace, defense, or high‑reliability manufacturing

strongly preferred

Deep experience with

MRP/ERP systems

(you’ve lived in them, not just used them)

Strong understanding of

BOMs, supply chain dynamics, and production planning

Experience managing suppliers for

electronic components, assemblies, and mechanical parts

Ability to operate in a fast‑moving, engineering‑heavy environment

Strong negotiation, analytical, and organizational skills

Bachelor’s degree

in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field ( preferred; equivalent experience considered )

Advanced proficiency in

Excel and data analysis

(pivot tables, forecasting, inventory planning)

Solid understanding of

BOM structures, production planning, and inventory control

Experience sourcing

electronic components, mechanical parts, and assemblies

Background in

aerospace, defense, or regulated manufacturing

strongly preferred

Demonstrated ability to manage

supplier relationships, lead times, and cost optimization initiatives

Strong organizational, analytical, and cross‑functional communication skills

Personality Fit

Hands‑on operator—not just a coordinator

Comfortable making decisions with incomplete information

Naturally thinks in terms of risk, lead time, and cost tradeoffs

Strong communicator who can work directly with engineers and executives

Takes ownership and drives results without needing heavy structure

Regulatory & Compliance Requirements

Must be a

U.S. Person

as defined by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual)

Ability to comply with export control regulations and company security policies

Must be eligible to access

controlled unclassified information (CUI)

and, if required, support programs with additional security requirements

Benefits & Perks

Competitive base salary with performance‑based bonus opportunities

Comprehensive

medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

with company participation

Paid time off (PTO)

and company holidays

Stable, long‑term employment in a growing aerospace & defense company

High‑impact role with direct visibility to leadership

Opportunity to work on

mission‑critical, ruggedized systems

for demanding environments

Collaborative, engineering‑driven culture with minimal bureaucracy

On‑site role with strong team interaction and decision‑making authority

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