Sr. Manager, Direct Procurement (Hardware)

Back to jobsSr. Manager, Direct Procurement (Hardware)Santa Clara, CA or RemoteApplyThanks for your interest in Oklo!  We are searching for a Sr. Manager, Direct Procurement (Hardware) to join our Procurement & Supply Chain organization. Position Description The Sr. Manager, Direct Procurement (Hardware) is responsible for developing and executing sourcing, supplier management, and procurement strategies for hardware systems critical to Oklo’s products and programs. This role leads procurement activities for complex components, assemblies, equipment, manufacturing systems, and integrated hardware solutions supporting Aurora powerhouses, fuel recycling systems, fuel fabrication capabilities, and future Oklo technologies. This role is responsible for leading a growing team of procurement professionals, developing strategic supplier relationships, negotiating complex commercial agreements, and ensuring suppliers can meet Oklo’s cost, quality, schedule, and capacity requirements. The Senior Manager partners closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Legal, and Program Management to support the successful development and deployment of Oklo’s products. This role focuses on procurement of Oklo-designed hardware systems and equipment and is distinct from procurement activities related to EPC, construction, and professional services. Specific responsibilities may include: Lead, mentor, and develop a growing team of procurement professionals responsible for direct hardware sourcing and supplier management Develop and execute procurement strategies for complex hardware systems, equipment, components, and assemblies Support procurement activities across Aurora powerhouses, fuel recycling systems, fuel fabrication capabilities, and future Oklo technologies Establish and manage competitive sourcing processes, including RFQs, RFPs, supplier evaluations, and supplier selection activities Lead commercial negotiations for strategic supplier agreements and long-term supply partnerships Develop and manage supplier relationships to support quality, delivery, capacity, and cost objectives Partner closely with Engineering teams to align sourcing strategies with product requirements, technical specifications, and development schedules Develop supplier qualification, segmentation, and performance management processes Identify and mitigate supply chain risks associated with critical hardware, long-lead equipment, and sole-source suppliers Support cost reduction initiatives, supplier cost analysis, and value engineering efforts Monitor supplier performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives Be involved in development of scalable procurement systems, processes, and tools that support organizational growth Maintain awareness of manufacturing capabilities, supplier markets, and industry trends relevant to Oklo’s products and supply chain Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or a related field 7+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supply chain, manufacturing, or related functions Experience sourcing complex hardware, equipment, manufacturing systems, or highly engineered products Experience leading and developing procurement, sourcing, or supply chain teams Experience negotiating complex commercial agreements and supplier contracts Experience working cross-functionally with engineering and technical organizations Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supplier operations Demonstrated ability to build and manage strategic supplier relationships Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and procurement requirements U.S. citizenship required Bonus Qualifications: Experience in nuclear, aerospace, defense, energy, industrial equipment, semiconductor, or other highly regulated industries Familiarity with ASME, NQA-1, or other regulated quality environments Experience supporting new product introduction,...