The Material Planner/Buyer is responsible for managing and optimizing the flow of materials within the supply chain to ensure the timely availability of materials required for production. This role involves forecasting material needs, coordinating with suppliers, and maintaining inventory levels to support efficient manufacturing operations.

KEY JOB DUTIES

Forecasting & Planning:

• Analyze production schedules and sales forecasts to determine material requirements.
• Develop and maintain material planning strategies to ensure adequate inventory levels.
• Collaborate with production and procurement teams to align material availability with production schedules.

Inventory Management:

• Monitor inventory levels to prevent stockouts and overstock situations.
• Implement inventory control techniques and reorder points.
• Conduct regular inventory audits and resolve discrepancies.

  Supplier Coordination:

• Communicate with suppliers to confirm material availability, delivery schedules, and quality standards.
• Address and resolve any issues related to material supply or quality.
• Evaluate and recommend changes to supplier relationships based on performance and cost.

  Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of material usage, inventory levels, and supplier performance.
• Generate and analyze reports on material consumption, inventory trends, and supply chain performance.
• Utilize ERP systems to track and manage material planning processes.

  Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for improving material planning processes and inventory management.
• Implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

  Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with Finance, Operations, Engineering, and Quality teams to ensure material requirements are met.
• Coordinate with logistics and warehousing teams to facilitate timely material movement and storage.
• Support new product introductions and changes to existing products by managing material requirements.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field with 3-5 years of equivalent experience.
• Proven experience as a Material Planner, Inventory Planner, or similar role.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management and inventory control principles.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and material planning software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Essential job functions:

• Work closely with internal and external contacts.
• Must possess great organizational and critical thinking skills.
• Must be proactive and able to work in a fast-paced environment.

Office hours are Monday - Thursday 8:00AM to 5:00PM; Friday 7:00AM to 3:00PM

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