Materials Planner

Job Description

Coordinate and expedite the flow of materials (from suppliers and also within departments) according to production schedules. Plan and schedule.

• Manage master production planning processes and material planning systems to ensure full alignment with production demand and delivery commitments.
• Prepare, maintain, and continuously update production schedules and purchasing needs in response to supply variability, capacity shifts, and demand changes.
• Maintain schedule performance against key production KPIs and escalate risks proactively to operations leadership.
• Cook up and expedite the end-to-end flow of materials — from supplier inbound deliveries through interdepartmental transfers — to prevent production disruptions.
• Execute material planning activities within established ERP/MRP systems, ensuring data accuracy and integrity.
• Ensure operational activities remain aligned with the production plan, supporting cross-functional teams including procurement, warehouse, manufacturing, and quality.
• Identify and recommend process improvements to enhance material flow efficiency, reduce lead times, and eliminate waste within the planning function.
• Apply growing knowledge of business operations and supply chain best practices to contribute to team and departmental goals.
• Partner with internal stakeholders across operations, procurement, and manufacturing to resolve supply chain issues using established procedures and escalation pathways.
• Develop and maintain clear communication channels with internal customers to exchange technical information and ensure mutual understanding of priorities.
• Consult with senior team members or supervisors on complex issues that fall outside defined parameters, demonstrating sound judgment in escalation decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• In lieu of a degree: High school diploma or GED with a minimum of 6 years of experience in materials planning, project scheduling, supply chain coordination, or a related manufacturing operations function.
• Foundational knowledge of manufacturing and materials planning and execution processes.
• Proficiency or working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).
• Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Desired Characteristics

• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to clearly convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Collaborative team player who actively builds relationships across functions and levels.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles or continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma) is a plus.
• Working knowledge of production scheduling tools and inventory optimization strategies.
• Eagerness to develop conceptual and applied knowledge within supply chain and materials planning disciplines.
• APICS CPIM or CSCP certification (or active pursuit) is advantageous.