Buyer/Planner

The Buyer / Planner is responsible for ensuring the efficient procurement of materials to support production schedules while maintaining optimal inventory levels. This role involves purchasing, materials requirements planning, supplier relationship management, and product lifecycle management. The Buyer / Planner is a key contributor to the supply chain team, negotiating favorable pricing and terms, fostering strong supplier relationships, and driving improvements in material availability, inventory management, and operational efficiency.

This position offers a competitive hourly wage with an excellent benefits package including : Profit Sharing, Matching 401(k), Health, Life, Dental, Vision, Short & Long Term Disability, Holiday, Personal, and Sick paid leave, Maternity Leave, and more.

Specific duties of the Buyer / Planner position include : -Purchasing and Supplier Management : Place purchase orders with suppliers based on forecasted and actual production needs.-Monitor and manage open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery, resolving any issues promptly.-Establish and maintain excellent relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable supply and collaboration.-Negotiate best pricing, payment terms, and delivery conditions with suppliers.-Inventory and Materials Planning : Develop and manage materials requirements and planning to support production schedules.-Set and maintain planning parameters in the material master system, including minimum order quantities (MOQ), lead times, and safety stock levels.-Optimize inventory levels by balancing forecasted demand, lead times, and demand variability.-Product Lifecycle and Change Management : Coordinate material flows during product or bill of material (BOM) changes, obsolescence, and the introduction of new products or suppliers.-Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support material / product-level revisions and development.-Issue Resolution and Continuous Improvement : Manage and resolve discrepancies between purchase orders and invoices, as well as work with the Warranty / Returns Coordinator on issues related to returns and quality.-Identify and implement process improvements to enhance supplier performance and internal efficiencies.-Internal Customer Service and Collaboration : Work closely with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and provide high levels of service.-Recommend alternative solutions, resources, and supply options to address challenges and meet business goals.

Any employment offer is contingent upon a pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.

REQUIREMENTS : -A minimum 3-5 years of experience in a buyer, planner, or materials scheduler role, preferably within a manufacturing environment -Must possess a Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related field. -Proficiency in SAP (or similar ERP systems), materials requirements planning (MRP), and inventory management.-Advanced skills in Microsoft Office, particularly Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint are required. -A strong sense of urgency and attention to detail, excellent organization, communication, and follow-up skills will be attributes of the ideal candidate along with the ability to self-direct and problem solve.