Production Planner

Aurubis is a leading global multi-metal company and one of the largest copper recyclers worldwide. We process complex metal concentrates, scrap metals, and metal-bearing recycling materials into metals of the highest purity, serving key megatrends such as digitalization, renewable energies, e-mobility, and urbanization. With about 7,000 employees and production sites in Europe and the US, Aurubis combines metallurgical expertise with a commitment to progress.

About the role

The Inventory Analyst reports to the Production Planning Manager and is responsible for the management and control of all materials used in the production process. This includes ensuring accurate and timely recording of material transactions, monitoring inventory levels, identifying variances, and recommending corrective actions to optimize inventory management. The role involves coordinating physical inventory counts, collaborating with production teams, and maintaining precise inventory records for Aurubis Richmond.

Responsibilities

• Verify that all material/inventory transactions (purchases, receipts, issues, transfers, purchase orders, delivery notes, and invoices) are correctly entered, recorded, and reconciled in SAP, MES, and other IT production applications.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies or variances, recommending corrective actions as needed.
• Monitor and analyze inventory levels to ensure the plant maintains appropriate material quantities to support production requirements.
• Serve as a Key-User for Production Planning Software, including software implementations (SAP, MES, IT Production Applications).
• Identify potential risks in material flow/inventory and recommend strategies to minimize holding costs while ensuring adequate stock levels.
• Coordinate with Planning and Production Teams to forecast material needs, place orders, and adjust inventory levels.
• Manage, plan, and execute physical inventory counts, ensuring accuracy of inventory records.
• Prepare and present reports and dashboards related to inventory management, material transactions, and holding costs using MS Excel, SAP, MES, and other production applications.
• Analyze data and provide insights and recommendations to support management decision-making and process improvement.
• Ensure compliance of material transactions and inventory records with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with Accounting to monitor and ensure accuracy of material-related tax filings and compliance reports.
• Support Planners and Accounting in maintaining availability and correctness of metallurgical controlling (e.g., metal balances, inventories, inputs, and outputs).
• Monitor production output and adjust production plans to meet changing demand or requirements.
• Collaborate with the Quality Control Team to ensure production meets quality standards and address issues promptly.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Engineering, etc.); experience may be considered in lieu of education.
• 3+ years of experience in a similar role (Material Control Analyst, Material Planning, or Inventory Analyst).
• Intermediate to advanced skills in MS Excel (V-lookups, pivot tables) and proficiency with SAP, MES, and other production/inventory systems.
• Experience participating in or implementing changes to SAP, MES, or other production applications is strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of inventory management principles, including inventory costing, control, and physical inventory management.
• Proficiency in data analysis, reporting, and preparing management presentations.
• Knowledge of lean/process improvement methodologies; APICS certification(s) a plus.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with a proactive and resourceful mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, balancing strategic and tactical responsibilities.
• Strong leadership skills, including the ability to motivate teams, manage conflict, and provide constructive feedback.
• Willingness and physical ability to work in a smelter environment, including exposure to varying temperatures, prolonged standing, walking, and bending.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds at times and wear required PPE in protected areas.
• Must possess close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Willingness to travel domestically and/or internationally if requested.
• Passion for metallurgy, project results, and continuous self-development.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance