Strategic Sourcing Manager, Space Systems

Viasat, Inc. • Carlsbad, CA

11d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for a Strategic Sourcing Manager to join our dynamic Space Systems team! This hybrid role offers the unique blend of working collaboratively within our Carlsbad or Tempe office and the flexibility of hybrid work.
Are you ready to lead sourcing strategies that power the next generation of space systems? As the Strategic Sourcing Manager for Space Systems, you will be at the forefront of Viasat’s most advanced satellite and ground network programs. This role is pivotal in managing the full spacecraft acquisition lifecycle—from requirements definition and source selection to contract negotiation, development, and on-orbit delivery.
You’ll work across the enterprise to align sourcing strategies with mission-critical objectives, ensuring technical excellence, supplier performance, and cost-effective execution. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of aerospace connectivity while building long-term supplier partnerships and leading a high-performing sourcing team.

Requirements

• 10+ years of aerospace industry experience, including 5+ years in program management or acquisition roles for space systems.
• 7+ years of experience in space systems supply chain subcontracts management.
• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, Business Administration, or a related technical or business field. Equivalent experience will be considered in lieu of a Bachelor’s degree.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft design, development, manufacturing, and testing processes.
• Familiarity with mission assurance, space-qualified standards, and radiation-hardened electronics.
• Proven leadership in managing multi-disciplinary teams and supplier relationships.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with experience engaging senior leadership.
• Travel up to 20% (domestic and international). Candidates in Tempe may experience up to 30% travel due to required visits to our company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field or MBA.
• Experience Managing complex Sub-Contracting efforts.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Oracle/SAP) and PLM tools (e.g., Agile).
• Experience in high-mix, low-volume environments with stringent reliability requirements.
• Experience with government and commercial contracting, including FAR, DFARS, and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs).
• Experience preparing Price and Cost Analysis Reports (PCARs) in collaboration with engineering and program teams.
• Working knowledge of ITAR and other regulatory frameworks.
• Experience evaluating and synthesizing prime contractor and government customer RFP requirements for flow-downs to subcontractors.

Responsibilities

• Lead all phases of the spacecraft acquisition lifecycle, including strategy development, source selection, contract negotiation, and delivery.
• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for spacecraft, payloads, ground systems, launch services, and AI&T.
• Evaluate space vehicle systems (bus and payloads) for technology readiness, production scalability, supply chain maturity, and space heritage.
• Prepare RFPs for both COTS and custom-designed components requiring NRE, design reviews, and space qualification.
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships across space systems industries.
• Collaborate with engineering, legal, program management, and supply chain teams to align sourcing strategies with technical and business goals.
• Conduct supplier risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for critical components.
• Monitor supplier performance, ensuring compliance with quality, delivery, and contractual obligations.
• Know the latest on advancements in space-qualified manufacturing.
• Serve as the primary interface between internal stakeholders, prime contractors, subcontractors, and government agencies.

Benefits

• Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered.
• Learn more about Viasat’s comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level