[Hiring] Principal Specialist, Commodity Management & Sourcing @RTX

Role Description

The Aerospace Hardware & Fastener Commodity Principal Specialist is responsible for strategic sourcing, supplier management, and cost optimization of aerospace hardware and fastener commodities. This role partners closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Program Management to influence design, supplier selection, and lifecycle cost while ensuring compliance with aerospace quality and regulatory requirements.

• Develop and execute global/regional commodity strategies for aerospace hardware and fasteners (bolts, nuts, screws, inserts, pins, specialty hardware, etc.).
• Lead should-cost modeling, VA/VE initiatives, and cost reduction roadmaps across active programs.
• Drive standardization, part rationalization, and preferred hardware lists to reduce complexity and total cost of ownership.
• Select, qualify, and manage strategic suppliers in alignment with quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Lead contract negotiations, long-term agreements (LTAs), and pricing strategies.
• Monitor supplier performance (OTD, quality, cost) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with suppliers on capacity planning, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with Engineering to influence design-for-cost, design-for-manufacturability, and hardware selection decisions.
• Support Manufacturing and Operations with supply continuity, demand forecasting, and escalation management.
• Work with Quality to ensure compliance with AS9100, FAA/EASA, and customer-specific requirements.
• Align sourcing strategies with Program Management to support schedule, cost, and performance targets.
• Ensure sourcing decisions comply with aerospace standards, export controls, and internal policies.
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks related to single-source suppliers, long lead times, and capacity constraints.
• Support audits and regulatory reviews as required.
• Track and report cost savings, cost avoidance, and productivity improvements.
• Maintain accurate spend analytics and commodity dashboards.
• Drive process improvements across sourcing and supplier management activities.

Qualifications

• Typically requires a University Degree and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience or in absence of a degree, 9 years of relevant experience.
• Minimum 3 years of strategic sourcing or commodity management experience in aerospace or a highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Experience with negotiation and contract management.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or MBA.
• Experience managing hardware and fastener commodities.
• Strong analytical, communication, and cross-functional leadership abilities.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred).
• Knowledge of aerospace drawings, specifications, and standards.
• APICS, CPSM, or similar professional certification.

Benefits

• Robust total rewards package with compensation.
• Healthcare, wellness, retirement, and work/life benefits.
• Career development and recognition programs.
• Parental (including paternal) leave.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Achievement awards.
• Educational assistance.
• Child/adult backup care.