Technical Procurement Specialist

ABOUT FOCUSED ENERGY Focused Energy is an international deep-tech company based in Germany and the US, working to commercialize laser-driven nuclear fusion. Our mission is to provide clean, safe, and virtually unlimited energy to the world. We are rapidly scaling and looking for talented individuals who thrive in building clarity and structure within fast-growing environments. As a Technical Procurement Specialist at Focused Energy’s Austin facility, you will source the specialized components and services needed to build one of the world’s first commercial fusion energy facilities. You will work closely with engineering and project teams to translate technical requirements into purchase orders, supplier commitments, and on-time deliveries. This is a hands-on role for an organized procurement professional who can manage detail, identify supply risks early, and keep critical work moving in a fast-changing environment. WHAT YOU’LL DO Procurement Operations & Delivery - Translate engineering requirements into clear specifications, quantities, lead times, and purchasing plans. - Manage the procurement cycle from approved request through delivery, keeping engineering and project teams informed of status, risks, and changes. - Prepare, issue, and administer purchase orders in line with approval requirements and procurement policy, and coordinate with Finance on invoices and payment questions. Sourcing & Supplier Management - Research and source technical components and services, including vacuum hardware, cryogenic systems, high-voltage equipment, lasers, and precision-machined parts. - Request and evaluate quotations, pricing, lead times, and commercial terms, and support supplier selection with the Lead Procurement Manager. - Maintain supplier relationships and support performance reviews, spend tracking, and procurement reporting. Risk, Compliance & Reporting - Track open orders, delivery dates, backorders, and requirement changes, and escalate critical-path delays early. - Maintain procurement risk registers and risk burndown views, and provide clear updates against project milestones. - Follow procurement policy and support NDA, IP, and export-control requirements, including ITAR and EAR, while keeping procurement records complete and current. WHO YOU ARE Qualifications & Experience - At least two years of procurement or purchasing experience, ideally in a technical, industrial, or project-driven environment. - Experience with sourcing, purchase orders, supplier communication, invoice administration, and procurement tools or ERP systems. - Degree or equivalent hands-on experience in mechanical, electrical, industrial engineering, or a related field, with the ability to read drawings, BOMs, and specifications. Execution & Judgment - Strong organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple requests, priorities, and deadlines. - Experience procuring under tight schedule constraints in aerospace, defense, semiconductor, energy, manufacturing, or a similar environment. - Sound judgment when evaluating supplier quotations, lead times, commercial terms, and supply risks. Communication & Mindset - Clear, professional communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders. - Proactive, collaborative approach and comfort working in ambiguity as processes develop. - Willingness to work on-site with the Austin team and take ownership of issues through resolution. WHY WORK WITH US? - Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery. - Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career. - Collaborative Culture: Work with great people in a dynamic, international environment with top-tier scientists, engineers, and professionals passionate about solving global challenges. - Ownership: Take ownership from day 1 and drive impact by making decisions, solving challenges, and shaping the future of our company. - Events: We organize regular events to foster team bonding, encourage collaboration, and build a strong, supportive company culture. Connect with colleagues across departments, share ideas, and have fun together, both in and outside of the workplace. Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.