First, who are we?
We're AquaAirX Autonomous Systems - a Bengaluru-based deep-tech startup building autonomous underwater and amphibious robots. Think inspection-class hovering AUVs that map dams and offshore assets (NEXOR), amphibious platforms that transition between air and water (AVATAAR), and an AI native ocean data platform (DeepNimbus).
“Oh, and we're funded by Rainmatter (Zerodha) — so yes, the people who backed us know a thing or two about building for the long haul.”
We work with defence, energy, and maritime customers on problems that genuinely matter, underwater infrastructure that nobody can see, but everybody depends on. Our founders are Forbes Asia 30 Under 30. Our robots have real deployments behind them, not just renders. The vibe is: small team, huge ambition, zero tolerance for “that's not my job.”
If “I took a bare platform and turned it into a vehicle that flies and dives” sounds like a flex you want on your bio — keep reading.
The role, minus the corporate fluff
We need a Procurement, Purchase & Inventory Executive who is equal parts negotiator, detective, and the person who always knows where the spare thrusters are. Hardware companies live or die on their supply chain, and you'll be the one making sure the right parts show up, at the right price, before anyone has to ask twice.
This is not a "raise a PO and forget it" role. This is a chase-it-down, track-every-part role at a company where a missing connector can hold up an entire build
Your two big missions
1. The Negotiator — Procurement & Purchase (Anyone can place an order. You get the right part, at the right price, on time).
Source components and materials for our robots: electronics, sensors, thrusters, batteries, cables and connectors, machined and 3D-printed parts, fasteners, and marine-grade materials.
Raise RFQs, collect and compare quotations, and negotiate on price, quality and lead time. Prepare purchase orders from engineering BOMs and approved requisitions, and follow up until delivery.
Build and maintain a reliable vendor database, including alternate sources for the parts you really can't afford to be without.
Coordinate with vendors and logistics partners, including import shipments and customs paperwork where needed.
2. The Ledger & Logistics Lead — Cost & Documentation (Every rupee spent should be a rupee you can account for).
Track spend against project budgets and flag cost increases early.
Keep purchase records, invoices, GST documents and delivery challans organised and audit-ready.
Coordinate with accounts on vendor payments, advances and reconciliations.
Share regular status reports on open POs, pending deliveries and inventory levels.
What you bring
The hard skills:
Diploma or degree in engineering, supply chain, commerce or business administration (or equivalent practical experience).
0 to 2 years of experience in procurement, purchase, stores or inventory management. Internships count. Working knowledge of MS Excel or Google Sheets.
Familiarity with an ERP or inventory tool is a plus. Basic understanding of purchase documents: RFQ, PO, GRN, invoice, delivery challan, and GST basics.
Ability to read a basic BOM or learn to quickly, and curiosity about how the parts fit together
The human skills (non-negotiable):
Strong follow-through — you chase things until they're done, and you keep clean records.
Comfort negotiating politely but firmly, and a habit of asking "what's the alternative?"
Clear communication in English and Kannada or Hindi.
A proactive streak — you spot the shortage before it becomes a crisis.
Bonus points if you...
Have experience sourcing electronics, mechanical or aerospace components (drones, robotics, automotive, manufacturing).
Have exposure to import/export procedures, customs, or courier and freight coordination.
Are aware of defence procurement or vendor compliance requirements.
Have startup experience and know what "wearing multiple hats" actually feels like.
What's in it for you
Real ownership — your purchasing decisions directly shape what ships.
Close to the product — see the parts you sourced turn into working robots on real infrastructure.
Learn the full hardware supply chain in a fast-moving deep-tech company.
A small team with direct access to the founders.
