Material Planner

Material PlannerAt Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.Material Planner plays a vital role in supporting operational excellence by ensuring timely and efficient flow of materials throughout the production process. This role is responsible for planning, coordinating, and optimizing material availability to meet production demands while driving improvements in inventory management, supplier logistics, and packaging solutions. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong analytical mindset, deep organizational skills, and an unwavering commitment to collaborative problem-solving.Material Planning & SchedulingDevelop and execute material requirements plans based on production forecasts, customer orders, and inventory targets.Ensure raw materials, components, and packaging are available at the right time and quantity to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations.Inventory ControlMonitor inventory levels, conduct regular cycle counts, and collaborate with warehouse staff to maintain accurate records.Identify and resolve discrepancies, optimize stock levels, and support initiatives to reduce excess and obsolete inventory.Supplier CoordinationCommunicate with suppliers to confirm delivery schedules, expedite urgent orders, and resolve issues related to quality or logistics.Support supplier performance reviews and contribute to just-in-time (JIT) delivery initiatives.Production SupportCollaborate with production supervisors and engineering teams to ensure material readiness for product launches and engineering changesSupport the ramp-up and phase-out of products by managing material transitions and obsolescence.Continuous ImprovementParticipate in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement projects focused on optimizing material flow, reducing waste, and enhancing process efficiency.Data Analysis & ReportingUtilize Microsoft Excel and other tools to analyze material consumption trends, forecast requirements, and generate reports for management reviewLeverage pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and other advanced functions to synthesize data and support decision-making.Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with purchasing, logistics, quality, and engineering teams to resolve material shortages, bottlenecks, or process issues.Communicate proactively to prevent disruptions and foster a culture of teamwork.Frequent interaction with purchasing, warehouse, production, engineering, and quality assurance teams.Process DocumentationMaintain accurate documentation of material plans, inventory transactions, and supplier correspondence in accordance with company policies and audit requirements.Support coordination and execution of factory production schedules to ensure timely completion of work orders and effective use of manufacturing resources.Manage vehicle work orders and collaborate with production teams to resolve scheduling conflicts and prioritize critical tasks.Education & ExperienceBachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience in a manufacturing or materials planning role will be considered.5+ of pertinent professional experience in material and production planningExperience in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologiesBackground in supporting product launches, engineering change management, and material transitions.Previous experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (e.g., automotive, medical devices, aerospace) is an asset.SkillsDemonstrated analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.Ability to interpret complex data and translate insights into actionable plans.Strong written and verbal communication skills. Proven ability to collaborate across functions and interact professionally with all levels of the organization.High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, formulas, and data analysis). Experience with ERP/MRP systems (such as SAP, Oracle, FUUZ, Plex or similar) is highly desirable.Detail-oriented and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Self-motivated with a drive for accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement.Familiarity with automotive or high-volume production systems, supplier logistics, and JIT delivery models.Performance IndicatorsOn-time material availability supporting production schedules.Accuracy and timeliness of inventory records and reports.Reduction in excess, obsolete, or slow-moving inventory.Supplier delivery performance and responsiveness to material issues.Contributions to process improvement initiatives (lean, Six Sigma, JIT).Professional DevelopmentOpportunities for ongoing training in supply chain management, lean manufacturing, and ERP systems.Support for Professional certifications (APICS, Six Sigma, etc.).Mentorship and growth into senior planning, purchasing, or supply chain leadership roles.Base Pay Range (Annual)96,333.00 - 144,499.00 USD AnnualWhy Join Team Slate?At Slate, we're fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.Safety FirstDelight CustomersOne TeamRelentless ImprovementFast, Frugal, and ScrappyRespectful CollaborationPositive LegacyWe want to work with people that reflect the communities in which we operate.Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. 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