Director, Supply Chain & Logistics

Location: [Bay Area, CA/ Newport News, VA]

About xLight

xLight is building the world's most powerful laser to revolutionize semiconductor lithography, metrology, and for other critical applications. Our approach harnesses the power of free-electron lasers, building on accelerator technology in use globally at scientific user facilities. Extending this technology, we are developing industrial-grade light sources, engineered for continuous operation, to meet the sophisticated demands of next-generation patterning, metrology, and inspection applications. Join us in this new revolution.

We hire exceptional talent — and exceptional means more than a strong résumé. How we achieve results is just as important as the results themselves, which is why attitude and character matter as much as technical skill. We believe great talent is widely distributed, not confined to a particular school or background. We seek individuals who demonstrate ownership, a spirit of collaboration, technical curiosity, and a genuine willingness to learn and grow — guided by our core values of Respect, Integrity, Creativity, and Engineering Excellence. We don't just hire for what someone can do today. We hire for who they are and who they are becoming.

What We Need — and Why It Matters

We are looking for a Director, Supply Chain & Logistics to build and scale the supply chain and own end-to-end logistics. xLight’s supply chain function is at an early stage. You will design the processes, hire the team, select the systems, and establish the standards. This is a true greenfield opportunity. The components you source and the systems you build enable the most advanced semiconductor manufacturing in the world. The quality and reliability of your supply chain directly impacts xLight’s ability to deliver on its mission. This role combines supply chain expertise in procurement, supplier strategy, cost management, inventory management, material planning and logistics expertise in shipping, receiving, and warehouse management. The ideal candidate combines strategic with hands-on execution, thrives in a technically demanding environment, and understands how to balance quality, cost, lead time, and reliability when working with specialized components and critical suppliers.

Where You'll Belong

The role will report to COO and will partner closely with Engineering, Product Delivery, Manufacturing, Finance, and company leadership to support product development, system integration, and manufacturing readiness.

What You’ll Do

Supply Chain

• Develop and lead supply chain program execution aligned with engineering roadmaps and company priorities
• Own sourcing strategies, resource planning, material cost, contract negotiations, forecasting, risk and opportunity management, supplier relationships, supplier performance, and supply chain issue resolution.
• Partner with Engineering and suppliers to improve manufacturability, support Design for Manufacturability (DFM), develop supplier capabilities, and drive continuous improvement in cost, quality, and lead times.
• Develop and manage key supplier relationships — identifying, qualifying, and onboarding strategic partners for critical components and materials.
• Establish supply chain risk management frameworks including dual sourcing, safety stock strategies, and business continuity planning.

Procurement & Material Planning

• Own procurement of optics, precision mechanical components, electronics, vacuum systems, cryogenic components, and specialty materials.
• Establish supplier qualification and performance metrics covering quality, cost, lead time, and reliability.
• Negotiate supplier contracts, pricing, and terms that deliver competitive cost, quality, and lead time performance.
• Drive cost optimization while maintaining quality, technical requirements, and delivery commitments.
• Partner with finance on inventory valuation, reserve analysis, and working capital optimization.
• Oversee material requirements planning (MRP) — ensuring demand signals are accurate, lead times are respected, and inventory levels support production without excess.

Shipping & Logistics

• Own the full inbound and outbound logistics function — carrier relationships, freight management, customs and trade compliance, and shipping cost optimization.
• Oversee receiving operations — ensuring incoming inspection, documentation, and material flow processes are efficient, accurate, and compliant.
• Manage warehouse operations including storage, organization, safety, and space utilization.

Leadership

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team including supply chain, buyers, planners, warehouse staff, and logistics coordinators as xLight’s growth demands.
• Collaborate with finance on budget planning, cost forecasting, and capital expenditure for supply chain infrastructure.
• Work with legal on supplier contracts, vendor compliance, and trade regulation matters.

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor's degree or related experience in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field.
• 12+ years of experience in supply chain, procurement, sourcing, or manufacturing operations within high-growth technology, hardware, semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, or deep-tech companies.
• Deep experience with ERP, MRP, inventory management, or supply chain planning systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, procurement, and material planning for complex products or hardware systems.
• Strong understanding of supplier management, inventory planning, cost optimization, and supply chain risk management.
• Collaborative leader with demonstrated ability to partner effectively with Product Delivery, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance teams.
• Ability to manage specialized components, long lead times, and technically demanding sourcing requirements.
• Ability to evaluate emerging AI capabilities and apply them responsibly to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, project management, and communication skills.
• Experience building processes and improving operational efficiency in a growing organization.
• Equally effective as a hands-on individual contributor and a team builder, able to roll up their sleeves today while strategically growing the supply chain organization for tomorrow in a fast-paced environment.

And If You Bring This — Even Better

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Operations, or a related field.
• Experience in semiconductor equipment, advanced manufacturing, scientific instrumentation, lasers, photonics, vacuum systems, RF systems, or cryogenics.
• Strong knowledge of export control regulations.
• Experience with APICS/ASCM, CPSM, Lean, or Six Sigma certification.
• Experience supporting hardware from prototype development through manufacturing readiness and production ramp.
• Experience with contract manufacturers, international suppliers, or outsourced production.
• Experience with the selection and implementation of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) is a plus.
• Experience building a supply chain function or leading a team in a high-growth technology company.
• Experience or strong interest in using AI tools to automate processes, improve reporting, and support data-driven decision-making.

What You Can Expect from Us

• 100% Company-funded health insurance for employee
• Company funded Life Insurance and disability insurance
• 401k contribution. 100% up to 3% of compensation, plus 50% match between 3% and 5%. Immediately vested.
• Flexible Paid Time-Off, Sick leave and Company Holidays
• Company Paid Two-weeks Winter Break
• Flexible Hybrid Work Model
• Chef prepared Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner at Palo Alto office
• Monthly breakfast, complimentary snacks and beverages at Newport News office

Pay transparency

The pay range for this position reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries at commencement of employment and is expected to be between USD 190,000/year-245,000/year. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple factors, including role, job-related knowledge, skills, relevant education and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including equity, and a full range of benefits. Details of all benefits will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

EEO Statement

xLight Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.