Supply Chain Lead

Job Description

Job Title: Supply Chain Lead. Location: Berkeley, CA or Fremont, CA (Hybrid)

This includes sourcing, logistics, supplier management, and risk mitigation across a high-precision and rapidly evolving technology landscape; The role is ideal for professionals with experience in high-tech or advanced manufacturing, who can build strong supplier relationships and execute under uncertainty.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement supply chain strategies for quantum hardware components, including cryogenic systems, control electronics, and photonics.
• Convert product roadmaps and forecasts into actionable sourcing and capacity plans.
• Optimize total cost of ownership and drive cost reduction and efficiency;
• Ensure compliance with export control, ITAR, and trade regulations.

Sourcing and Supplier Management

• Identify and manage suppliers for precision components such as optics, electronics, and cooling systems.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and terms while balancing quality and risk.
• Conduct supplier audits and improvement programs.
• Establish supplier performance scorecards and escalation procedures.

Operations and Logistics

• Oversee procurement, inventory, and material flow across locations.
• Manage purchase orders, inbound logistics, customs, and compliance;
• Coordinate with freight forwarders and production teams to align material availability with build schedules.
• Supervise domestic and international shipping using FedEx, UPS, or approved brokers.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering, product, and operations teams to ensure material readiness.
• Lead design-for-supplyability and cross-functional reviews.
• Mentor junior supply chain team members;
• Report risks, metrics, and mitigation plans to leadership.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• 8–12 years of experience in supply chain management, procurement, or operations in high-tech, aerospace, or manufacturing sectors.
• Proven success managing supply chains for precision or high-reliability systems (optics, electronics, vacuum, or cryogenics).
• Experience with supplier negotiations, contracts, and compliance;
• Strong analytical, modeling, and planning skills.
• Familiarity with ERP or planning tools such as NetSuite.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Preferred

• Experience with cryogenics, semiconductors, or quantum technology supply chains.
• Understanding of RF cables, machining, sheet metal, and mechanical assemblies.
• Knowledge of ITAR, EAR, and trade compliance;
• Experience in risk modeling or resilience planning.
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or supply chain excellence practices.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Salary range: $150,000 to $180,000 per year (final offer based on experience and location).
• Competitive compensation with equity options.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage;
• 401(k) plan, paid parental leave, rejuvenation days, and flexible vacation policy.
• Inclusive and diverse work culture with equal opportunity employment.

Export Licensing Compliance: Rigetti is fully committed to anti-discrimination and export control laws; It promotes a workplace that values diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, minorities, and underrepresented groups are encouraged.