Inventory Manager

About Varda

Low Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. Varda’s W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses.

From life-saving pharmaceuticals to more powerful fiber optics, there is a world of products used on Earth today that can only be manufactured in space. Varda is accelerating innovation in the orbital economy by creating both the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind.  

Our team is uniquely suited to accomplishing this goal, with leadership and staff comprised of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical companies and Silicon Valley. Varda was founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov with significant backing from world class investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.  

Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, where we have offices and a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are built, integrated, and tested. Varda also has offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL. 

Join Varda, and work to create a bustling in-space ecosystem.

About This Role

As part of the Supply Chain team, you will play a critical role in overseeing inventory management processes. You will work closely with production, quality, and finance teams ensuring our inventory system is accurate and able to meet build milestones. You’ll be responsible for performing and leading day - to - day operations as well as driving strategic projects and process improvements to support the business as it continues to grow and evolve.  

This is a full-time onsite role based in our El Segundo headquarters.

Responsibilities

• Own receiving inspection, inventory, and material handling operations  
• Build and lead a team of inventory specialists and material handlers
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and service level agreements (SLAs) to support operations
• Setup and track inventory metrics and KPIs
• Conduct regular audits and cycle counts to verify inventory accuracy and address discrepancies.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices in inventory management.
• Train and mentor team members on inventory management practices and procedures.  
• Support the team with day-to-day receiving inspection and kitting operations

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field, or 6+ years of experience in materials management or supply chain  
• 5+ years of experience in inventory management and receiving inspection, preferably in the aerospace, manufacturing, or technology sectors.
• Formal proven people management experience required. 
• Proficiency in inventory management software (e.g., ERP systems) and Microsoft Office Suite  

Preferred Qualifications

• The Association for Operations Management (APICS) certification or equivalent  
• Excellent communication and team building skills.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.
• Skilled in SQL and/or PowerBI  

Additional Qualifications

• Lifting up to 50 lbs. unassisted  
• Able to operate forklift equipment  

Pay Range

• Inventory Manager Salary Range: $135,000 - $183,000
• Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance
• This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA

Benefits

Varda offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, financial well‑being, and a high‑quality workplace experience. Below is an overview of what full‑time employees receive (at this time, interns receive a subset of benefits):  

Health & Wellness  

• Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays  
• 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
• Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance