Buyer Planner

Job Description Job Description The Buyer/Planner is responsible for purchasing, production planning, and material cost management to ensure the timely and cost-effective availability of materials required to support manufacturing operations. This position plays a critical role in balancing customer demand, production schedules, inventory levels, and supplier performance while supporting the company's operational and financial objectives. Working cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Engineering, Finance, Quality, and external suppliers, the Buyer/Planner develops production schedules, manages procurement activities, monitors inventory, maintains accurate material costs within the ERP system, and drives continuous improvement initiatives to support on-time delivery and operational efficiency. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Production Planning Develop, maintain, and update production schedules to meet customer demand and manufacturing capacity. Create, release, and manage manufacturing work orders. Coordinate production schedules with outsourced manufacturing partners and subcontractors. Plan and schedule kitting activities to ensure material availability for production. Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as needed to meet changing priorities. Purchasing & Supplier Management Source and procure OEM components, machined parts, fabricated assemblies, equipment frames, injection-molded components, sheet metal, raw materials, and other production supplies. Create, issue, and manage purchase orders to ensure timely material delivery. Build and maintain strong supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance for quality, cost, and delivery. Resolve supplier issues involving shortages, quality concerns, pricing, and delivery delays. Evaluate and qualify alternative suppliers and materials to improve cost, quality, and supply continuity. Material Cost Management Manage and monitor material costs to support company profitability. Maintain accurate material pricing and purchasing data within the ERP system. Support cost accounting activities, including cost analysis, reporting, and variance investigations. Participate in cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, sourcing strategies, and value engineering. Inventory & Materials Management Analyze demand forecasts and inventory levels to maintain optimal inventory while minimizing excess and obsolete materials. Coordinate delivery schedules to support production requirements. Monitor inventory accuracy and recommend improvements to inventory control processes. Collaborate with warehouse and production teams to ensure material availability. Systems & Continuous Improvement Utilize ERP/MRP systems to manage purchasing, inventory, production planning, and reporting activities. Prepare reports and analyze data to support purchasing and planning decisions. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve supply chain performance. Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and quality standards. Minimum Qualifications Experience Minimum of 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in purchasing, production planning, materials management, or supply chain within a manufacturing environment. Hands‑on experience using ERP/MRP systems (QAD, SAP, Oracle, or similar) for procurement, inventory management, and production planning. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of purchasing, production planning, MRP, inventory control, forecasting, and supply chain operations. Demonstrated ability to manage purchase orders, analyze material requirements, and coordinate production schedules. Experience negotiating with suppliers and managing supplier performance. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems for reporting and data analysis. Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to prioritize multiple projects and work effectively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Ability to collaborate across multiple departments and build strong working relationships. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field. Experience in semiconductor equipment, precision manufacturing, industrial equipment, or other technical manufacturing environments. Experience with QAD ERP. APICS certification (CPIM) and/or ISM certification (CPSM) is a plus. Work Environment Primarily office‑based within a manufacturing facility. Frequent interaction with production personnel, suppliers, engineering, finance, and warehouse operations. Occasional visits to the production floor are required. May require occasional overtime to support production schedules and business needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr H-Square Corp