Materials Planner I

The Materials Planner I is responsible for purchasing components required for manufacturing, managing execution of Demand Planning Agreements (DPAs) with key customers, maintaining component and finished‑good inventory levels, and planning the release of work orders based on customer orders, production capacity, and component availability. This role ensures a reliable flow of components from suppliers to the production floor, supports on‑time customer delivery, and balances profitability, inventory, capacity planning, and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage stock inventory levels for manufacturing based on usage and customer stocking programs.
• Develop and manage stocking/replenishment programs with suppliers to minimize inventory while maximizing flexibility.
• Reduce lead time of components, thereby shortening lead times to customers.
• Issue purchase orders to component suppliers based on production demand and forecast.
• Determine which component parts require forecasting and coordinate with Strategic Purchasing on supplier‑bonded inventory or blanket orders.
• Purchase components at the most favorable price while meeting quality, quantity, specification, and delivery requirements.
• Manage component EOQ, MOQ, lead time, safety stock, and replenishment reorder‑point planning parameters.
• Provide regular reports on customer demand planning agreements.
• Support new product development and project releases.
• Perform production‑planning functions within BaaN MRP modules.
• Release production orders to the shop floor based on incoming customer orders, required ship dates, production capacity, and component inventory.
• Execute daily BaaN MRP tasks: confirm and transfer purchase orders, release MRP and PRP production orders, review product requirements, update work‑order schedules, and revise production schedules based on demand.
• Establish and coordinate priority for work‑order kitting, release, and scheduling with manufacturing.
• Interface with Customer Service, Production, Shipping/Receiving, Quality, Strategic Purchasing, Engineering, and Product Management.
• Meet inventory targets for assigned product lines.
• Coordinate quality matters and engineering changes between company activities and suppliers.
• Proactively report product and material availability issues.
• Maintain Item Master Data and update planning data to ensure effective BaaN planning.
• Plan, schedule, and monitor material movement through development, prototype, and production cycles.
• Expedite orders as necessary.
• Identify and address actual or potential delivery problems, informing appropriate personnel.
• Implement improvement processes to reduce inventory and non‑value‑added work.
• Demonstrate initiative, taking responsibility for tasks and seeking input when needed.
• Act with honesty and integrity, owning mistakes and fulfilling commitments.
• Collaborate as a team player, expressing gratitude and appreciation for support.
• Adapt to change by pursuing lifelong learning and remaining open‑minded.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering or Supply Chain Logistics.
• APICS certification preferred.
• Enhanced knowledge of Kanban and LEAN techniques preferred.
• Working knowledge of MRP systems required.
• Previous production‑planning experience in a manufacturing environment highly desired.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Basic print reading preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, handle multiple tasks, and maintain high accuracy.
• Self‑starting, motivated, and able to work independently or as part of a team with limited supervision.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to balance immediate and long‑term priorities.
• Collaborative attitude and effective teamwork.
• Project‑management skills.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret business documents, technical procedures, and drawings.
• Capability to manage and manipulate system data and parameters to meet stocking and service level goals.
• Strong decision‑making and time‑management abilities.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English; some German language ability is helpful.
• Willingness to travel internationally for up to 10 working days as needed.
• Physical ability to sit or stand continuously for four hours and use a computer for four hours without a break.
• Attendance in accordance with company policies.
• Ability to drive to local suppliers in own vehicle (reimbursement provided) on short notice.
• Flexibility to work a six‑day week if required.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Regular and on‑time attendance.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) matching.
• Generous paid time‑off package.
• 16 weeks fully paid maternity leave.
• 10 weeks fully paid paternity leave.
• Life insurance.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.
• On‑site gym access and health & wellbeing center.
• On‑site café.
• Walking trails.
• Tuition assistance.
• Additional employee benefits and wellness programs.