Sr. Global Supply Manager, Battery and Raw Materials (Starlink)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. GLOBAL SUPPLY MANAGER, BATTERY AND RAW MATERIALS (STARLINK) One of the most ambitious missions that SpaceX has undertaken to date, the Starlink constellation is our solution to providing reliable internet to the entire world. To capitalize on our technical and market success, our team will execute large-scale projects that will define the bottom-line for the Starlink program. The functions within the department include procurement, planning and fulfillment, supplier development and quality, logistics, inventory management, negotiation of supplier contracts and pricing, and developing the commodity strategy. This is a high-profile, cross functional position that plays an integral role in enabling development and production flow for Starlink production, with a tight focus on Starlink batteries and their constituent raw materials. You will work in close coordination with engineering and manufacturing departments, executing effective, creative and smart supply chain strategies to achieve production goals. With integration taking place in-house, sourcing managers can see their assemblies come to life every day! RESPONSIBILITIES: Develop deep expertise in battery cell chemistries, materials (anodes, cathodes, electrolytes, separators, current collectors), and manufacturing processes to qualify suppliers and resolve technical supply issues Manage sourcing and risk for critical battery raw materials and compounds (lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, silicon, manganese, lithium salts, electrolytes, etc.), including price volatility, geopolitical constraints, and ethical/sustainability requirements Evaluate and qualify battery cell manufacturers and material suppliers on technical capabilities such as cell performance (energy density, cycle life, safety), production yield, quality systems, and scalability. Drive supply chain strategies for battery-specific challenges including long-lead custom cells, cell-to-pack integration components, and emerging technologies Place purchase orders and resolve blocked invoices Forecast demand, evaluate capacity, and manage supply signals to adjust incoming material Track high-risk components and ongoing supplier delivery performance Communicate clearly and rapidly to influence decisions of vendors and senior leadership Interpret engineering drawings and BOMs Solve complex, open-ended problems with an emphasis on speed and efficiency Perform onsite reviews of vendor capabilities Author contract documents with the legal department and ensure that vendors comply with all agreements. Negotiate with suppliers to maximize value and cost savings while lowering risk BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced degree and 9+ years of experience working in one or more of the following; or bachelor’s degree and 11+ years of experience working in one or more of the following; or 15+ years of experience working in one or more of the following: Engineering Purchasing Contract negotiation Material or production planning Operations or supply chain management Material cost control Master production scheduling Capital equipment sourcing PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: Experience with MRP or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, as well as, managing bill of materials, work orders, and purchase orders Experience with forecasting, demand planning, and lead time analysis Detail-oriented, self-motivated and able to respond quickly to a fast-moving and ever-changing environments Capability to prioritize multiple on-going projects Strong track record for achieving results; must be able to reference wins and quantify impact Strong skills in data analysis using Excel, SQL, and PowerBI Solid understanding of common manufacturing processes and machines inclu