Strategic Sourcing Manager, Space Systems
Company: viasat
Location: Carlsbad
Posted on: March 24, 2026
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Job Description:
About us One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At
Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity
to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped
shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around
the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act
fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives
positive impact to join our team. What youll do 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. The day-to-day 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. What youll need 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. What will help
you on the job 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. Salary range $131,500.00 - $207,500.00 / annually.
For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay
area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for
this role is $163,500.00- $245,500.00/ annually At Viasat, we
consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the
scope of the position as well as your background and experience.
Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and
experience. 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. EEO Statement Viasat is proud to be an equal
opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse
environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration
for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender,
gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin,
ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital
status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable
legally protected status or characteristic.
Keywords: viasat, Lake Forest , Strategic Sourcing Manager, Space Systems, Engineering , Carlsbad, California
