Buyer/Planner (Aerospace)

Job Title: Buyer/Planner

Position Summary:
The Buyer/Planner is responsible for managing all aspects of the Outside Supplier Process (OSP) to ensure the timely procurement of goods and services to support QAF's operations and customer requirements. This role will also provide support for planning functions, addressing operational challenges, and ensuring the seamless integration of procurement and production activities within the ERP system.

Essential Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Buyer/Planner include, but are not limited to:

Purchasing and Supplier Management:

• Prepare, issue, and maintain purchase orders (POs) for OSP in compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Ensure all required documentation, including certifications of conformance and traceability, is received with purchased goods and services.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery and address any production or scheduling constraints.
• Negotiate pricing, minimum order quantities (MOQs), and delivery timelines with suppliers as required.
• Monitor delivery schedules and proactively follow up with suppliers to confirm due dates or recovery timelines.
• Manage supplier performance, ensuring alignment with QAF customer schedule requirements.

ERP System and Production Planning Support:

• Accurately input, monitor, and update purchase order details within the company's ERP system.
• Assist in planning functions, including launching work orders, issuing materials, and performing contract reviews.
• Ensure the integrity of ERP system data by collaborating with the Production Control team.
• Generate and analyze daily milestones and open order reports related to purchase orders.

Communication and Coordination:

• Act as a key point of contact between suppliers, sales, and production operations to ensure seamless communication and adherence to schedules.
• Inform the Production Control Manager of any schedule changes, delays, or challenges impacting procurement or planning.
• Provide internal and external expediting support to ensure smooth workflows and timely deliveries.

Other Responsibilities:

• Support raw material and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) planning in a backup capacity.
• Promote and adhere to company safety policies by performing all tasks in a safe and responsible manner.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned by management to meet operational requirements.

Qualifications and Skills:
To be successful in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in production planning or procurement, preferably in a manufacturing or aerospace environment.
  • Proficiency in using ERP/MRP systems for planning and purchasing.

• Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Higher education or relevant certifications in supply chain management, procurement, or related fields preferred.

• Technical Proficiency:

  • Knowledge of ERP/MRP database applications.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (intermediate or better).
  • Basic math skills with strong attention to detail.

• Soft Skills:

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively within a team and independently with minimal supervision.
  • Sensitivity toward and ability to work with individuals from diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

Physical and Environmental Requirements:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

• Physical Demands:

  • Regularly required to sit at a computer workstation, using dual monitors and keying in data for extended periods (approximately 50% of the time).
  • Occasionally required to stand, walk, and lift/move items up to 20 lbs. unassisted.
  • May push light, bulky items on rolling carts and operate in environments with moving materials.

• Work Environment:

  • Office environment with occasional exposure to production areas.
  • Required safety protocols must be followed at all times.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.