Sourcing Manager, Robotics

Job Description:

Job Title: Sourcing Manager, Robotics

Location: Fremont, CA On-site

Nextpower

About Nextpower

Nextpower designs and deploys advanced inspection robotics that operate in demanding real-world environments. Our systems combine robotics, sensing, and intelligent software to deliver reliable, scalable inspection solutions across critical infrastructure and industrial applications. We are building production-ready robots and are scaling our supply chain to support rapid growth.

Role Overview

Nextpower is seeking an experienced Robotics Sourcing Manager to lead sourcing and supplier development for our inspection robot product line. This role is responsible for end-to-end component sourcing, supplier strategy, and the development and management of contract manufacturers from early build through volume production.

The ideal candidate has strong experience in electromechanical hardware sourcing, contract manufacturing, and new product introduction (NPI) in robotics, automotive, aerospace, or related hardware industries.

Key Responsibilities

Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Own sourcing strategy for mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, and off-the-shelf components used in inspection robots

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers for critical components including motors, gearboxes, sensors, PCBs, batteries, enclosures, and custom machined parts

• Negotiate pricing, lead times, tooling, MOQs, and long-term supply agreements

• Manage supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery, and scalability

Contract Manufacturer Development

• Select, develop, and manage contract manufacturers for prototype, pilot, and volume production

• Lead RFQ processes and cost modeling for full system builds and sub-assemblies

• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure DFM/DFA readiness

• Support production ramp, capacity planning, and supply chain risk mitigation

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with hardware engineering during design phases to influence component selection and cost targets

• Partner with operations, manufacturing, quality, and finance teams to align sourcing decisions with business goals

• Support NPI builds, ECOs, and transition from prototype to production

Cost, Risk, and Supply Chain Strategy

• Drive cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, alternate sourcing, and design optimization

• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including single-source dependencies and long lead-time components

• Develop long-term sourcing roadmaps aligned with product and volume forecasts

Qualifications

Required

• 8+ years of experience in sourcing, supply chain, or procurement for hardware products

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, Operations, or a related technical field

• Hands-on experience sourcing components for electromechanical or robotic systems

• Proven experience selecting and managing contract manufacturers

• Strong understanding of NPI, prototype builds, and production ramp

• Experience negotiating supplier contracts and managing BOM costs

• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering and manufacturing teams

Preferred

• Experience in robotics, automation, automotive, aerospace, or industrial equipment

• Familiarity with PCBAs, motors, sensors, batteries, and precision mechanical components

• Experience supporting production in North America and Asia

• Background in supply chain risk management for early-stage or scaling hardware companies

Nextpower offers a comprehensive benefits package. We provide health care coverage, dental and vision, 401(K) participation including company matching, company paid holidays with unlimited paid time off, generous discretionary company bonuses, life and disability protection and more. Employees in certain positions may be eligible for stock compensation. All plans are in accordance with relevant plan documents. For more information on Nextpower’s benefits please view our company website at www.Nextpower.com

Pay is based on market location and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education and other job-related reasons. The annual salary range for this position is 160,000.00 to 170,000.00 (Applicable to California)

At Nextpower, we are driving the global energy transition with an integrated clean energy technology platform that combines intelligent structural, electrical, and digital solutions for utility-scale power plants. Our comprehensive portfolio enables faster project delivery, higher performance, and greater reliability, helping our customers capture the full value of solar power. Our talented worldwide teams are redefining how solar power plants are designed, built, and operated every day with smart technology, data-driven insights, and advanced automation. Together, we’re building the foundation for the world’s next generation of clean energy infrastructure.

Nextpower is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

We are Nextpower