Procurement Specialist

About McDermott Aviation

McDermott Aviation, headquartered in Cooroy, QLD is Australia's largest privately-owned helicopter company. With over 40 years of experience in aerial firefighting, heavy lifting, and remote operations, we deliver critical helicopter services across Australia and internationally. Our fleet of 50+ aircraft is supported by a highly skilled team of pilots, engineers, and specialists operating at bases throughout Australia, the USA, and Europe.

Position Overview

The Procurement Specialist – Strategic Sourcing (Aviation & MRO) is a key role within our global operations, responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing aviation parts, consumables, tooling, and maintenance services. This position balances day-to-day procurement activities with long-term supplier strategy, ensuring cost-effective, compliant, and timely availability of materials to keep our fleet mission-ready.

Success in this role requires strategic thinking, supplier management expertise, and deep knowledge of aviation compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Lead sourcing across aviation procurement categories (rotables, consumables, tooling, MRO services)
• Develop and execute category strategies aligned with operational and compliance requirements
• Evaluate, onboard, and manage suppliers for quality, capability, and regulatory compliance
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and service-level agreements
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve escalations

Operational Procurement

• Raise and track purchase orders for aviation parts and services
• Expedite urgent orders or AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requirements
• Work closely with Maintenance, Planning, and Stores to ensure timely supply

Inventory & Planning Support

• Review stock levels, usage trends, and lead times for optimal availability
• Manage procurement of long-lead or high-risk components proactively
• Coordinate replenishment with demand planning teams

Systems & Data Integrity

• Maintain accurate vendor and procurement data in ERP/AMS systems
• Support process improvements and system enhancements
• Ensure traceability and reporting accuracy through high-quality master data

Compliance & Documentation

• Align procurement practices with CASA, FAA, and EASA regulations
• Maintain airworthiness documentation and audit-ready procurement records
• Partner with Quality and Compliance teams to uphold regulatory standards

Reporting & Value Delivery

• Track procurement spend, savings, and KPIs
• Produce RFQs, vendor analysis, and procurement activity reports
• Contribute to budget forecasting and procurement planning

Skills & Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's in Procurement, Supply Chain, Aviation Management, or related field
• 5+ years' experience in aviation, aerospace, or regulated industrial procurement
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing and category management
• Strong knowledge of aviation certification requirements (Form 1, 8130, CoC)
• ERP system experience (any platform)
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier engagement skills

Why Join McDermott Aviation?

At McDermott Aviation, you'll be part of a respected and industry-leading team known for hands-on, mission-critical operations that make a real impact. We offer:

• The chance to work in one of the most dynamic aviation sectors
• A role with global exposure across multiple bases and regions