Supply Chain Manager (Procurement)

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGER (PRECOURMENT) Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating manufacturing as a single integrated system, we unlock a new era of innovation where complex hardware is designed, built, and scaled without limits.  This is Freeform’s first dedicated supply chain hire, a rare opportunity to build something from scratch. You’ll own the full procurement lifecycle, establish our supplier base, and put in place the systems and processes that power our technology development engine. There’s real hands-on execution here: quoting, negotiating, closing deals, chasing parts. But you’ll also be thinking strategically: which vendor relationships matter long-term, where we’re exposed to risk, and how our supply chain needs to evolve as we scale. Ultimately, you'll be a force-multiplier for engineering and finance: the parts, materials, and tools they need, when they need them, without waste.    Responsibilities:  Own the full procurement lifecycle from sourcing and RFQs to negotiation, PO issuance, and on-time delivery for direct materials, components, and services across all Freeform programs  Build and manage our supplier base from the ground up: identify and qualify vendors, run competitive bid processes, negotiate commercial terms, and develop strategic partnerships with key suppliers  Partner closely with engineering and manufacturing to support NPI and DFM reviews, weigh in on make-vs-buy decisions, and ensure supply chain requirements are embedded in product development from day one  Work with our internal software engineering team develop modules for our homegrown ERP system, creating a scalable, data-driven supply chain infrastructure  Hold suppliers accountable on cost, quality, and delivery  Build commodity strategies for key categories including machined components, raw materials, electronics/PCBAs, and external fabrication services  Proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks such as single-source dependencies, long-lead items, geopolitical exposure and develop contingency plans before they become problems  Drive cost reduction through should-cost modeling, competitive sourcing, and supplier negotiations; define and track supply chain KPIs and report to leadership  Collaborate with finance and legal on contract structures, payment terms, and vendor agreements  Lay the foundation for a world-class supply chain org - define the structure, build the playbooks, and eventually hire and develop the team under you  Basic Qualifications:  Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, finance, supply chain, or operations management   5+ years of supply chain, procurement, or strategic sourcing experience in a manufacturing-intensive industry (aerospace, defense, automotive, robotics, deep tech, or similar)  Demonstrated track record of hands-on technical procurement: sourcing machined parts, raw materials, electronics, or complex assemblies  Strong negotiation skills with experience closing contracts and managing commercial relationships with both small job shops and large-scale suppliers  Experience implementing or operating within ERP/MRP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Fishbowl, or similar) and using data to drive procurement decisions  Nice to Have:  Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and BOMs; comfortable enough with manufacturing processes to have credible conversations with engineers and vendors  Background in or exposure to additive manufacturing, advanced materials, or novel production processes  Familiarity with defense or aerospace supply chains, including ITAR considerations and AS9100 quality frameworks  Experience with should-cost modeling and TCO analysis to support make-vs-buy and supplier selection decisions  Strong data skills: proficiency in Excel/Google Sheets for spend analysis; SQL or BI tools (Power BI, Tableau) are a plus  Exceptional organizational skills and ability to manage a high volume of active sourcing efforts across multiple programs simultaneously  Self-directed and comfortable with ambiguity — you don’t need a fully built playbook to be effective  Location:  Based in Hawthorne, our vertically integrated facility brings technology development, R&D, and production together under one roof. We operate at the center of LA’s deep tech ecosystem, surrounded by some of the most ambitious hardware innovation happening anywhere in the country.  Our fast-paced, cross-functional environment is built on close collaboration, and as such, this role requires full-time onsite presence (five days a week), with very limited exceptions. Why Freeform?  We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology Benefits  Significant stock option packages  100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (premium PPO and HMO options)  Life insurance  Traditional and Roth 401(k)  Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays  Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent  Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette  Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events  Compensation  As an early-stage startup, the salary range is intentionally wide as we determine the most appropriate package for each individual taking into consideration years of experience, educational background, and unique skills and abilities as demonstrated throughout the interview process. Our intent is to offer a salary that is commensurate for the company’s current stage of development and allows the employee to grow and develop within a role.  In addition to the significant stock option package, the estimated salary range for this role is $100,000 – $150,000. The upper end of the range is reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional experience, deep domain mastery, and a proven history of high performance and impact.  Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.  Offices: El Segundo, California, United States (Headquarters);