Buyer/Planner

Buyer/Planner

The Buyer/Planner at Vantage Mobility is responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing material requirements to support manufacturing and production schedules. This role ensures optimal inventory levels, on-time material availability, and alignment between supply chain activities and operational goals. The Buyer/Planner plays a key role in supporting production efficiency, supplier performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Functions

The essential functions listed below represent the primary duties of the position. Duties may vary based on assignment and business needs.

• Develop and manage material plans to support production schedules, customer demand, and inventory targets
• Analyze demand forecasts, production plans, and inventory levels to ensure material availability
• Coordinate with purchasing, production, engineering, and suppliers to resolve material shortages or constraints
• Monitor and adjust planning parameters to optimize inventory turns and reduce excess or obsolete inventory
• Review and maintain accurate data within ERP/MRP systems, including item master and planning parameters
• Support new product introductions and engineering changes by assessing material impact and readiness
• Identify opportunities for process improvements within material planning and supply chain operations
• Assist in creating, placing, and tracking purchase orders to prevent stock shortages.
• Maintain vendor contracts, audit compliance, and evaluate supplier delivery reliability.
• Communicate directly with vendors to expedite critical deliveries and handle order delays.
• Support resolution of inventory discrepancies between physical stock and digital records.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience

• Progressive experience in material planning, production planning, or supply chain roles within a manufacturing environment
• Strong working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems, inventory management principles, and production planning
• Required certifications or licenses: None required.

Preferred Qualifications

• APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP, or similar)
• Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated experience supporting cross-functional supply chain initiatives

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret demand and inventory data
• Effective communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work safely around machinery, tools, and manufacturing equipment

Work Environment

Work is performed in an environment that may include exposure to manufacturing equipment, moving mechanical parts, noise, fumes, or varying temperatures, depending on the role.

Safety-Sensitive Position

This position is designated as safety-sensitive. Employees must comply with all OSHA requirements and company safety policies and procedures.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Vantage Mobility is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may change at any time based on business needs.