Inventory Planning Specialist II

Summary:

The Inventory Planning Specialist is responsible for managing spare parts and production-related inventory to ensure continuous manufacturing operations. This role oversees inventory & MRO planning, forecasting, and replenishment strategies to maintain optimal stock levels, preventing both shortages and excess inventory.

This position partners closely with Maintenance, Production, Engineering, and Purchasing teams to align inventory with current production demands and future operational needs. The Specialist analyzes inventory trends, monitors usage patterns, and executes purchasing activities to support a stable and efficient manufacturing process.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and maintain spare parts and production-related inventory to support continuous manufacturing operations
• Analyze current inventory levels, consumption trends, and production forecasts to determine replenishment needs
• Develop and execute inventory planning strategies to ensure proper stock levels while minimizing excess and obsolete inventory
• Create and manage purchase requisitions and coordinate with procurement to ensure timely ordering of materials and spare parts
• Monitor open orders, delivery timelines, and supplier performance to prevent production disruptions
• Conduct and oversee cycle counts and physical inventory activities to ensure inventory accuracy
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions
• Maintain accurate inventory records within ERP/CMMS/MES/EMS systems, ensuring all transactions are properly recorded and tracked
• Support implementation and continuous improvement of inventory control processes, including cycle counting and material flow optimization
• Coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams to identify critical spare parts and ensure availability of high-risk components
• Collaborate with production teams to align inventory planning with production schedules and demand requirements
• Track and report key inventory and production KPIs, including inventory accuracy, usage trends, and material availability
• Prepare and communicate daily, weekly, and monthly inventory and performance reports
• Support cross-functional communication with internal teams and global partners regarding inventory status and requirements
• Identify opportunities to improve inventory efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance material flow throughout the process
• Mentor and support team members in inventory processes, systems, and best practices
• Ensure all activities are performed in compliance with safety, quality, and operational standards
• Maintain cleanliness at work-site in accordance with 5S3R Standards
  • Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain
  • Right Location, Right Quantity, Right Container
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Logistics, or related field; or equivalent relevant experience may be considered

Experience:

• 3+ years of experience in inventory management, MRO planning, production planning, or supply chain within a manufacturing environment
• Experience working with ERP and/or CMMS systems required
• Experience supporting spare parts, maintenance, or production inventory preferred
• Experience with inventory control processes, cycle counting, and material flow optimization
• Exposure to lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies preferred

Work Authorization:

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret inventory and production data
• Ability to forecast demand and make data-driven inventory decisions
• Strong understanding of inventory control principles and material planning
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• High attention to detail and organizational ability
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed to support production operations
• Bilingual (Korean & English) language proficiency required to support coordination with Korean headquarters, OEM partners, and technical documentation review

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to properly and regularly utilize the following PPE for a period of up to 12 hours:
  1. Safety glasses
  2. Steel-toed shoes
  3. Nitrile gloves
  4. Ear protection
  5. Cleanroom suit

• Must be able to perform the following activities repeatedly for periods of up to 12 hours:
  1. Lift, push, and pull materials or equipment
  2. Stoop, twist, and bend
  3. Reach overhead
  4. Sit and/or stand for extended periods
  5. Use hands and fingers to operate tools, equipment, and computer systems

Work Environment:

• Work may involve handling or working in proximity to hazardous materials and regulated industrial chemicals.
• Exposure to chemical vapors, dust, or other controlled substances may occur depending on process assignment.
• Strict adherence to company safety policies and OSHA Hazard Communication requirements is mandatory.
• Employees must properly wear and maintain assigned personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times within designated areas.
• Required PPE may include respirators, chemical-resistant garments, gloves, eye protection, face shields, or other equipment determined by process and risk assessment.

HL-GA Battery Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that values the diversity of its workforce.