Material Planner

Position Summary

The Material Planner is responsible for ensuring the continuous availability of components, raw materials, and packaging needed to support production schedules and customer demand. This role manages inventory levels, monitors supplier performance, and collaborates cross-functionally to maintain an efficient and cost-effective supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Scheduling

• Develop, maintain, and execute material planning strategies to meet production schedules and customer orders.
• Create and manage purchase orders based on MRP signals, forecasts, and safety stock requirements.
• Monitor demand fluctuations and adjust material plans accordingly.

Inventory Management

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to prevent shortages, backorders, and excess stock.
• Conduct regular inventory analysis and support cycle counting activities.
• Identify slow-moving or obsolete materials and recommend corrective actions.

Supplier Management & Procurement

• Communicate daily with suppliers regarding order confirmations, delivery schedules, and lead times.
• Track supplier performance and escalate delivery or quality issues as needed.
• Coordinate shipments, expedite orders, and ensure timely delivery of materials.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Production, Purchasing, Logistics, Engineering, and Quality to address material constraints.
• Participate in daily/weekly production meetings to provide material availability updates.
• Support new product launches by planning materials and aligning suppliers.

Data & System Management

• Maintain accurate MRP data including lead times, safety stocks, order quantities, and BOM accuracy.
• Generate and analyze reports related to shortages, forecast accuracy, inventory health, and supplier performance.
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to ensure accurate material signals and transactions.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or related field; or equivalent experience.
• 2–4 years of experience in material planning, production scheduling, or supply chain operations.
• Strong understanding of MRP/ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Epicor, etc.).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience working with manufacturing environments (automotive, aerospace, electronics, or similar).
• Advanced Excel skills

Key Competencies

• Detail-oriented and proactive
• Problem-solving and root cause analysis
• Supplier relationship management
• Team collaboration
• Continuous improvement mindset

Physical & Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with periodic visits to warehouse or production areas.
• Occasional travel to suppliers may be required.
• Assist in yearly Physical Inventory