Sr. Manager, Direct Procurement (Hardware)

Thanks 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