Material Planner

Job Description

Material Planner
Location: Taylor, MI
Shift: 1st
Pay: $20-$21 an hour
Position SummaryWatson Engineering is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Material Planner to support production planning, scheduling, and customer delivery requirements. This role is responsible for creating and managing work orders based on customer demand, monitoring production progress, coordinating with purchasing and manufacturing teams, and ensuring products are delivered on time and to customer specifications. The Material Planner serves as a key liaison between customers, production, purchasing, and shipping departments to maintain efficient workflow and customer satisfaction.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesProduction Planning & Scheduling

• Create and release work orders based on customer demand and production requirements.
• Monitor and track work-in-process and raw materials throughout the manufacturing process.
• Schedule jobs to ensure timely production and just-in-time delivery of materials.
• Coordinate with purchasing, manufacturing, and other departments to maintain production schedules.
• Monitor production status and proactively address potential delays.

Customer & Supplier Communication

• Serve as the primary point of contact regarding production schedules and delivery timelines.
• Communicate order status, shipment dates, and schedule changes to customers.
• Collaborate with customers regarding release schedule changes and production requirements.
• Participate in customer status meetings throughout the production process.
• Investigate and resolve customer concerns regarding product quantity, quality, or delivery discrepancies.

Logistics & Inventory Coordination

• Coordinate outbound shipments as required.
• Track inventory levels and ensure adequate material availability.
• Monitor inventory movement and maintain accurate records.
• Assist in maintaining efficient material flow throughout the facility.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve planning processes, reduce turnaround times, and increase operational efficiency.
• Support company initiatives focused on quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Previous experience in Material Planning, Production Planning, Scheduling, Supply Chain, or a related manufacturing role preferred.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment required.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, work instructions, specifications, and production documents.
• ERP/MRP system experience preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer-based planning systems.
• Ability to work effectively with customers, suppliers, management, and production personnel.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, and move throughout office and manufacturing environments.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 25 pounds.
• Manual dexterity required for operating computers and office equipment.
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and maintain focus in a dynamic environment.

Work Environment

• Combination of office and manufacturing floor environments.
• Required use of safety glasses and other PPE when entering production areas.
• Appropriate footwear required.
• Loose clothing and jewelry are prohibited in manufacturing areas.

Schedule

• Full-time position.
• Standard 40-hour work week.
• Overtime may be required to support production schedules and customer demands.

Success in this role will be measured by:

• Accuracy and timeliness of work order creation and management.
• On-time delivery performance.
• Effective communication with customers and internal teams.
• Inventory accuracy and material availability.
• Ability to meet customer requirements while supporting efficient manufacturing operations.

About Cardinal Staffing
At Cardinal Staffing, we are dedicated to helping individuals unlock their career potential through meaningful job opportunities. As a leading staffing agency in the light industrial and manufacturing space, we pride ourselves on connecting talent with top employers across the Midwest and Southeast. With an estimated yearly revenue of $295 million, Surestaff was recently named one of the largest staffing firms in the U.S. by Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA).
We understand that finding the right job is about more than just a paycheck - it's about finding the opportunity that fits your skills, goals, and lifestyle. Here are the benefits you'll enjoy when you partner with us:
Access to a wide range of job opportunities
Competitive pay
Health and Wellness Programs (including EAP)
Medical benefits including medical, vision, dental, and prescriptions
Electronic weekly pay
Employee Advocacy & Personalized Job Support
Cardinal Staffing also follows all applicable state and local laws regarding sick time, paid time off, and retirement savings programs. Surestaff is an equal opportunity employer.
Notice Regarding the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment DecisionsIn accordance with state mandates, we are providing this notice to inform all applicants and employees that artificial intelligence (AI) tools may be used at various stages of our employment processes. This may include recruitment, screening, hiring, promotion, or other employment-related evaluations.AI tools may assist in reviewing application materials, assessing qualifications, or supporting decision-making. These tools do not replace human judgment; rather, they are used to support consistent and efficient evaluation.
Our commitment to speed-to-hire means we work efficiently to get you placed in the right role, fast. If you're ready to take control of your career, explore exciting opportunities, and gain experience that lasts, then Cardinal Staffing is the place for you. Let's get started today!
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Meet Your Recruiter

Jessica O'Sullivan