Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.
SARA is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and experienced Supply Chain Manager to support activities out of our Colorado Springs location. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers.]
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to lead and own all supply chain functions in support of all company programs and associated initiatives. This role has direct responsibility for purchasing, inventory and materials management, shipping and receiving, and supply chain systems and tools, and provides day-to-day leadership to the purchasing and materials teams.
The Supply Chain Manager is accountable for ensuring all supply chain activities are executed in full compliance with FAR, DFARS, CPSR, and company policies, while supporting company-wide cost, schedule, quality, and operational objectives. This position plays a critical role in audit readiness, supplier performance, inventory accuracy, and the effective flow of materials across the organization.
Key Competencies
- Supply chain leadership and organizational ownership
- Regulatory and audit readiness
- Process design and system implementation
- Risk management and supplier performance management
- Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration
Supply Chain Leadership & Ownership
- Directly manage and lead the purchasing, inventory/materials, and shipping & receiving teams
- Establish clear roles, accountability, and performance expectations across the supply chain organization
- Develop and maintain supply chain policies, procedures, and internal controls aligned with CPSR and DCMA expectations
- Serve as the primary supply chain interface with Program Management, Engineering, Quality, Contracts, and Finance
Regulatory & Compliance
- Ensure end-to-end compliance with FAR, DFARS, CPSR, and applicable flow-down requirements
- Own supply chain readiness for CPSR audits, DCMA reviews, and internal audits
- Ensure compliant source selection, price analysis, negotiation documentation, and purchase order files
- Oversee proper handling of ITAR/EAR-controlled items and government-furnished property (GFP)
Purchasing & Supplier Management
- Oversee all purchasing activities, including requisition processing, RFQs, negotiations, and purchase order issuance
- Lead supplier selection, qualification, and performance management for defense-qualified vendors
- Ensure consistent application of contractual terms, conditions, and flow-down clauses
- Drive cost control initiatives while maintaining compliance and supply continuity
- Resolve supplier performance issues related to quality, delivery, or cost
Inventory, Materials & Tool Management
- Own inventory management and material control processes across all company locations, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and audit readiness
- Plan, execute, and certify annual full physical inventory audits at all company sites, including reconciliation, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
- Establish and optimize material planning, MRP, and demand forecasting processes
- Implement, maintain, and continuously improve inventory control systems, ERP/MRP tools, and supporting technologies
- Drive improvements in inventory accuracy, cycle counting, and reduction of excess and obsolete material
- Ensure proper controls for serialized, lot-controlled, company-owned, and government-owned material, including tools and test equipment where applicable
Shipping & Receiving
- Oversee shipping and receiving operations, ensuring accurate receipts, documentation, and timely delivery
- Ensure compliance with contractual shipping requirements, export controls, and documentation standards
- Implement processes to support on-time delivery to internal programs and external customers
- Maintain controls to ensure material integrity from receipt through shipment
Continuous Improvement & Systems
- Lead the selection, implementation, and optimization of supply chain tools and systems
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including sole-source suppliers and long lead-time materials
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, lead time, quality, and compliance
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, Engineering, or related field
- 7 – 10 years of progressive supply chain or procurement experience in a defense or government contracting environment
- Direct leadership experience over purchasing, inventory/materials, and logistics functions
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with:
- FAR / DFARS
- CPSR preparation and execution
- Purchasing and supplier negotiations
- Inventory control and material management systems
- Strong understanding of government contract types (FFP, CPFF, T&M, IDIQ)
- Experience with ERP/MRP and inventory management tools
- US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
- May require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
- Working environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lighted, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree or professional certification (CPSM, CPM, CSCP)
- Prior experience supporting DCMA, DCAA, and CPSR audits
- Experience implementing or upgrading ERP/MRP or inventory systems
- Knowledge of AS9100, ISO, or other defense quality standards
SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:
- Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
- A generous PTO program
- Tuition & certification reimbursement
- Flexible work schedules
- Employee bonuses
- 401(k) match
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Pay Range
Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $105,000 – $125,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.
Application Deadline: March 18, 2026
SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.
