Entry-Level Buyer/Planner

FLSA Status: Exempt

About the Role

This position supports CEPA's purchasing and production planning functions by sourcing materials, managing purchase orders, and coordinating production schedules. You'll start with smaller programs and one-off orders, gradually building toward ownership of larger programs. The role involves the same core purchasing and planning work as the rest of the Buyer/Planner team, but at a smaller scope while training ramps up. The goal is to ensure dependable material flow and clear-to-build readiness on assigned programs, freeing senior Buyer/Planners to focus on more complex initiatives.

We're looking for someone early in their purchasing or materials career who is detail-oriented, curious, and eager to learn. Success in this role includes accurate, on-time purchase orders, reliable production planning, and steady growth in scope and independence over time.

Responsibilities

• Purchasing & Supplier Management
  • Source and procure OEM components, machined parts, fabricated assemblies, equipment frames, injection-molded components, sheet metal, raw materials, and other production supplies
  • Create, issue, and manage purchase orders to ensure timely material delivery
  • Build and maintain strong supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance for quality, cost, and delivery
  • Resolve supplier issues involving shortages, quality concerns, pricing, and delivery delays
  • Evaluate and qualify alternative suppliers and materials to improve cost, quality, and supply continuity
• Production Planning
  • Plan and purchase materials based on production schedules and demand forecasts
  • Coordinate production schedules with outsourced manufacturing partners and subcontractors
  • Plan and schedule kitting activities to ensure material availability for production
  • Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as needed to meet changing priorities
• Material Cost Management
  • Manage and monitor material costs to support company profitability
  • Maintain accurate material pricing and purchasing data within the ERP system
  • Support cost accounting activities, including cost analysis, reporting, and variance investigations
  • Participate in cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, sourcing strategies, and value engineering
• Inventory & Materials Management
  • Analyze demand forecasts and inventory levels to maintain optimal inventory while minimizing excess and obsolete materials
  • Coordinate delivery schedules to support production requirements
  • Monitor inventory accuracy and recommend improvements to inventory control processes
  • Collaborate with warehouse and production teams to ensure material availability
• Systems & Continuous Improvement
  • Utilize ERP/MRP systems to manage purchasing, inventory, production planning, and reporting activities
  • Prepare reports and analyze data to support purchasing and planning decisions
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve supply chain performance
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and quality standards
• Perform other responsibilities, initiatives, and ad-hoc projects as required

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred
• Experience: 1–2 years of experience in basic purchasing or inventory management (this is an entry-level buyer/planner role)
• Knowledge: Working understanding of purchasing, production planning, MRP, inventory control, forecasting, and supply chain operations, or a strong aptitude to learn. Some exposure to ERP/MRP systems (QAD, SAP, EPICOR, or similar) is a plus; full training will be provided

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Working proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and collaborate across departments

Internal & External Relationships

• Internal: Purchasing Manager, senior Buyer/Planners, Production, Engineering, Finance, and Warehouse teams
• External: Suppliers and vendors

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods
• Occasional walking on the production floor
• Moderate noise level consistent with an office located within a manufacturing facility

Pay

$51,000—$54,000 USD