About McDermott Aviation
McDermott Aviation, headquartered in Cooroy, is Australia’s largest privately-owned helicopter company. With over 40 years of experience in aerial firefighting, heavy lifting, and remote operations, we provide essential helicopter services across Australia and internationally. Our fleet includes more than 50 aircraft, and we support a team of highly skilled pilots, engineers, and support staff operating at bases throughout Australia, the USA, and Europe.
Position Overview
The Procurement Specialist – Strategic Sourcing (Aviation & MRO) plays a critical role in the sourcing, negotiation, and category-level management of aviation parts, consumables, tooling, and services.
This role supports both day-to-day procurement and long-term supplier strategy, ensuring the availability of certified, cost-effective materials that meet the needs of our global helicopter operations. A focus on supplier performance, data accuracy, and aviation compliance is essential.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management:
•Lead sourcing activities across key aviation procurement categories (e.g. rotables, consumables, tooling, MRO services)
•Develop category strategies aligned with operational, budget, and compliance requirements
•Evaluate and onboard suppliers based on quality, capability, and regulatory compliance
•Negotiate pricing, contracts, and service level agreements
•Monitor supplier performance and manage escalations
Operational Procurement:
•Raise and manage purchase orders for aviation parts and services
•Expedite urgent orders or AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requirements
•Collaborate with Maintenance, Planning, and Stores to ensure timely supply
Inventory & Planning Support:
•Review stock levels, usage trends, and lead times to maintain optimal availability
•Proactively manage procurement of long-lead and high-risk components
•Coordinate replenishment with demand planning teams
System & Data Integrity:
•Maintain accurate vendor and procurement data in ERP/AMS systems
•Support procurement process improvements and system enhancements
•Ensure traceability and reporting accuracy through master data quality
Compliance & Documentation:
•Ensure procurement aligns with CASA, FAA, and EASA regulations
•Maintain airworthiness documentation and audit-ready procurement records
•Work closely with Quality and Compliance teams to meet regulatory standards
Reporting & Value Delivery:
•Track procurement spend and savings
•Produce RFQs, vendor analysis, and procurement activity logs
•Assist in budget forecasting and procurement planning
Skills & Qualifications
•Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Aviation Management, or related field
•5+ years of procurement experience in aviation, aerospace, or regulated industrial sectors
•Strong category management or strategic sourcing experience
•Knowledge of aviation certification requirements (Form 1, 8130, CoC)
•ERP experience (any platform)
•Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier engagement skills
Why McDermott Aviation?
At McDermott Aviation, you’ll be part of a trusted and recognised name in helicopter operations, known for our hands-on, mission-critical work across Australia and around the world.