Supply Chain Lead

Job Description

Job Title: Supply Chain Lead. Location: Berkeley, CA or Fremont, California

Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end supply chain strategy for advanced quantum hardware and subsystem components
• Develop and execute supply plans aligned with product roadmaps and demand forecasts
• Drive cost reduction, total cost of ownership optimization, and margin improvement
• Ensure compliance with export control, ITAR, trade, and security regulations;
• Identify, qualify, and manage strategic suppliers for high-precision components such as cryogenics, photonics, control electronics, lasers, optics, and qubit materials
• Support contract negotiation, pricing, lead times, and supplier terms while balancing cost, quality, and risk
• Conduct supplier audits and lead continuous improvement initiatives
• Build supplier scorecards and service level agreements and resolve performance issues
• Oversee procurement, inventory management, and material flow across sites
• Manage inbound logistics, customs, and import/export compliance
• Coordinate freight forwarders and handle domestic and international shipments using designated brokers such as FedEx and UPS
• Align material availability with production schedules and assembly teams;
• Partner with engineering, product, quality, and finance teams to support scalable quantum system builds
• Lead cross-functional supply reviews and support design for supply-ability
• Mentor junior supply chain staff and communicate risks and mitigation plans to senior leadership

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or related field
• 8 to 12+ years of supply chain or procurement experience in high-tech, manufacturing, aerospace, or similar industries
• Proven experience managing supply chains for precision and high-reliability subsystems such as optics, electronics, vacuum systems, or cooling systems
• Strong supplier negotiation and contract management skills;
• Experience with global sourcing, logistics, customs, and regulatory compliance
• Strong analytical, planning, and stakeholder communication skills
• Experience with ERP or planning tools, preferably NetSuite

Preferred:

• Experience in quantum, semiconductor, or advanced technology supply chains
• Knowledge of RF cables, machining, sheet metal, mechanical or electrical assemblies
• Familiarity with risk modeling, scenario planning, or resilience engineering;
• Exposure to quantum hardware environments or emerging quantum-classical systems
• Lean or Six Sigma certification
• Experience working in startup or rapidly scaling environments

Benefits and Compensation:

• Salary range: $150,000 to $180,000 per year
• Final compensation based on experience, skills, and location
• Competitive salary and equity;
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan
• Paid parental leave
• Rejuvenation days and vacation aligned with regulations and industry standards