Sr Material Planner

About the role

The Senior Material Planner role is a leader within the operation team. Responsible for inventory management and supplies to support customer requirements, production schedules, and other operational functions. This role also updates and improves established processes and procedures for maximum efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Execute planning messages (MRP, Virtual Pull, requisitions, etc.) in a timely manner to ensure production and customer requirements are fulfilled.
• Prepare production schedules, drive execution, and adjust as customer requirements change or other factors influence the schedule.
• Release purchase orders to preferred/approved suppliers based upon planning messages.
• Expedite and de‑expedite orders of inventory and supplies by reviewing shortages reports and other messages.
• Collaborate with Purchasing in the evaluation of current approved suppliers and selection of new suppliers.
• Maintain JDE planning parameters (lead‑times, ROP, ROQ, MOQ, Kanban systems, and accurate system dates).
• Understand, track, lead and drive actions to improve corporate‑defined KPIs including inventory, customer satisfaction levels, lead‑time, etc.
• Foster positive communications with internal/external “customers” for raw materials, finished goods, supplies, and services (Customer Service, Suppliers, Inter‑plant, operations, etc.).
• Manage inbound and outbound shipments with suppliers and internal traffic department.
• Assure proper approval, accounting, and processing controls are maintained.
• Comprehend current and future demand and its impact on internal and external capacity, initiating actions to support the demand.
• Improve material flow through replenishment programs to optimize utilization of resources.
• Participate in new product development projects.
• Interface with Quality/Purchasing Category Managers to develop corrective actions related to purchased and manufactured components.
• Lead and execute continual improvement/cost‑down projects.
• Manage changes related to engineering, process, quality, and/or suppliers.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in operations, supply chain, business or equivalent experience required.
• 5+ years of experience in a planning/manufacturing environment preferred.
• Manufacturing familiarity.
• Familiarity and working knowledge of quality systems.
• Committed to lifelong education.
• Proven track record as a team player.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Customer‑focused mindset.
• Sense of self‑accountability.
• High level of professionalism.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (especially pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, etc.).
• Problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to work well and cross‑train in a team environment.
• Ability to identify cost‑down and continual improvement opportunities.
• Understanding of dependencies and their cause/effect.
• Ability to lead a team of peers in a project environment.
• Ability to develop or negotiate solutions to conflicting and unusual requests.
• Ability to motivate others.
• Understanding of manufacturing KPIs and opportunities for improvement.

Working Conditions

This work takes place in a professional office setting that has a production shop floor attached. Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when appropriate will be required.

Core Values

• Take Ownership: Our intention is to match our actions with our words, building trust with others. We are united in taking responsibility for the success of Vollrath as a whole.
• Empower Action: Our intention is to create a workplace where every member can thrive in their growth and contributions with excitement, confidence, and psychological safety. We support each team member with resources and tools to strengthen collaboration and performance.
• Treat All People With Respect: Our intention is to recognize the diverse experiences, styles, and backgrounds of others, treating everyone with dignity. We aim to foster an inclusive culture where all team members can be their authentic selves and feel safe in voicing their perspectives.
• Life Beyond Work: Our intention is to care for the well‑being of every individual we engage with, understanding them as a whole person. We strive to keep people mentally and physically safe, sending each person home in a condition to build a fulfilling life beyond work. We encourage balance, allowing our colleagues to pursue their passions.
• Commitment to Those Who Count on Us: Our intention is to drive innovation and practical solutions through understanding the needs of our coworkers, customers, owners, and communities. We are dedicated to proactively addressing those needs and delivering results.