Buyer/Planner II

About the role

The Buyer/Planner II purchases materials and supplies from an approved supplier list, schedules production, and releases work orders to support plant capacity and customer requirements. This role manages inbound logistics for purchased material using a Transportation Management System (TMS) and participates in continuous improvement projects for waste elimination and cost reduction.

Responsibilities

• Manages ERP material planning workbench by creating, releasing, and maintaining purchase orders and work orders to support demand requirements.
• Weighs appropriate risk factors when making buy decisions to support inventory targets.
• Controls documents pertaining to the supply base.
• Drives resolution of material constraints through direct intervention with suppliers.
• Conducts production meetings with plant management to ensure work order, sales order schedules, and customer promise dates are achieved.
• Manages, maintains, and tracks internal build and ship schedule attainment, collaborating closely with the manufacturing plant management team.
• Works supply shortage reports and open PO reports to eliminate supply constraints.
• Manages inbound material using TMS, selects carriers for best price and service levels, and files damage claims as required.
• Identifies and implements cost reduction activities through optimized processes, leveraging spend, competitive sourcing, and supplier collaboration.
• Evaluates inventories of purchased material and drives inventory reduction initiatives through improved buying methodology and process improvement.
• Strives for procurement process optimization and waste elimination.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable standards and local regulations for assigned locations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, or related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in a similar role preferred.
• Experience negotiating with suppliers.
• ERP/MRP system experience required, preferably SAP.
• Ability to travel as required.

Skills & Abilities

• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Experience with SAP, Infor Visual, or other ERP systems.

Competencies

• Facilitates collaboration/teamwork.
• Strong communication skills.
• Customer focus.
• Integrity & trust.
• Commitment to continuous improvement.
• Adaptability/flexibility.
• Accountability/drive for results.
• Planning & organizing.
• Critical thinking/learning agility.
• Influence/lead without authority.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits starting the first day of the month after hire.
• Market-leading 401(k) program with company match.
• 100% tuition reimbursement.
• Career development and advancement opportunities.
• Flexible work environment.