Materials Planner

Purchasing, Planning & Release ManagementProcess customer releases and analyze demand requirements to ensure accurate planning and uninterrupted production support.Create, review, and manage steel releases based on customer schedules, inventory levels, production requirements, and supplier lead times.Monitor customer demand fluctuations and communicate material requirements to suppliers.Evaluate steel availability against the Master Production Schedule.Purchase raw materials, steel, components, and assembly materials.Maintain purchase orders for suppliers and outside processors.Obtain quotations and procure materials for new launches and engineering changes.Prepare and evaluate RFQ packages.Conduct spot buys when suppliers cannot meet requirements.Cost ManagementMaintain cost adjustment mechanisms and annual purchasing budgets.Develop cost reduction initiatives through waste elimination, supplier negotiations, and PPV opportunities.Identify and implement approved cost-saving projects.Inventory & Supplier ManagementPurchase materials while maintaining inventory targets.Reconcile raw material inventory to theoretical and QA hold inventory.Conduct cycle counts and investigate root causes of variances.Track supplier performance and corrective actions.Monitor industry and market conditions affecting supply and pricing.Support ResponsibilitiesAssist with daily production meetings.Maintain raw material specification sheets.Support PPAP activities and engineering changes.Provide backup coverage for the Production and Inventory Control Manager.Assist Receiving Technicians regarding material priorities.Minimum Qualifications/RequirementsEducation: Prefer bachelor's degree in Supply Chain or similarly related field; or minimum 3 years automotive manufacturing or supply chain experienceAbility to communicate clearly, concisely, logically, persuasively, and accurately, both verbally and in writing.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; self-starter with high drive and a quality results orientation.Ability to effectively communicate and work well with people at all organizational levels and from various backgrounds.Willing to work in a team environment, adapt to the changing needs of the organization, and provide support as workloads fluctuate.Excellent skills in dealing with fast pace, challenging and often "impossible" situations; must like solving problems and getting the job done.Willingness and ability to collaborate with internal customers and other functional groups to provide optimal solutions while complying with corporate guidelines.Strong leadership skills demonstrated through championing accountability, maximizing team and individual strengths, seeking and implementing change, and aligning with critical plant and business objectives.Language SkillsMust be able to clearly speak, read, write, and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace.Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups and/or boards of directors.Secondary language of Spanish is beneficial.Computer/SoftwareMust demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office and other computer-based applications (e.g., MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Outlook, Internet, etc.).Working knowledge and experience with ERP/MRP software.TrainingNew Hire OrientationEnvironmental, Health, & SafetyIATF-16949 SystemsISO-14001 SystemsIntroduction to LeanAssociate InvolvementQuick Die Change – SMEDWorkplace Organization – 5STotal Productive Maintenance (TPM)TQPS WorkshopShopEdge ERP SystemPurchasing ProceduresQCBD Document ControlWork Environment/ConditionsOffice: Open Office EnvironmentPlant: Various types of manufacturing environments.Standard automotive plant environment with moderate noise levels.ExperienceProduction Control working knowledgeMinimum 3 years in automotive manufacturing purchasing role.Experience in manufacturing settings with a proven track record of delivering results.Prior experience with multi-site responsibility in a manufacturing setting preferred.Production and inventory control education or experience.Will possess the organizational skills necessary to maintain company records in compliance with the Materials Department and IATF-16949 systems.Must be able to work with all levels of company management as well as customers and vendors.North American Stamping Group is a drug-free and smoke-free workplace.