Operations

Materials Planner

Looking to hire your next Materials Planner? Here’s a full job description template to use as a guide.

About Vintti

Vintti is a specialized staffing agency that believes diversity is the catalyst for innovation. We connect US-based SMBs, startups, and firms with exceptional talent from Latin America, fostering a rich tapestry of cultural perspectives within American businesses. Our unique position allows us to handpick professionals who not only possess the required skills but also bring fresh ideas and global insights to the table. Vintti's services go beyond filling positions; we enrich company cultures and expand business horizons on an international scale.

Description

A Materials Planner is an essential role within supply chain management, responsible for ensuring the timely and efficient flow of materials required for production. This role involves analyzing and forecasting material needs, coordinating with suppliers, and managing inventory levels to prevent shortages or overstock situations. Materials Planners work closely with production teams to schedule deliveries, monitor lead times, and address any supply chain disruptions. Their goal is to maintain optimal inventory levels, minimize production delays, and contribute to the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the manufacturing process.

Requirements

- Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in materials planning, inventory management, or a similar role.
- Proficient in using materials management software and ERP systems.
- Strong analytical skills for interpreting production schedules and sales forecasts.
- Solid understanding of supply chain processes and inventory control.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to coordinate and collaborate effectively with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement cost reduction strategies.
- Experience in conducting inventory audits and cycle counts.
- Problem-solving skills to resolve supplier-related issues and material discrepancies.
- Ability to forecast material requirements based on historical data and market trends.
- Familiarity with safety and quality standards in materials handling.
- Strong project management skills for continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Experience in risk identification and mitigation related to material supply.
- Knowledge of transportation and logistics principles.
- Familiarity with quality control processes to ensure material specifications and standards.
- Certification in APICS CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management) or CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) is a plus.

Responsabilities

- Analyze production schedules and sales forecasts to determine material requirements.
- Generate and manage purchase orders and requisitions.
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely material delivery.
- Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages and overstock.
- Conduct inventory audits and cycle counts.
- Communicate with production teams about material needs.
- Track and expedite critical orders.
- Maintain accurate records of material transactions and stock levels.
- Resolve supplier-related delivery issues.
- Collaborate with logistics for efficient material transportation.
- Forecast future material needs based on historical and market data.
- Use materials management software and ERP systems.
- Develop and implement cost reduction strategies.
- Attend meetings with production and procurement teams.
- Prepare and present inventory and supply chain reports.
- Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Identify and mitigate material supply risks.
- Support new product development with timely material availability.
- Work on continuous improvement of materials planning processes.
- Liaise with quality control to meet material specifications and standards.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Materials Planner role will have a Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field, coupled with 3-5 years of prior experience in materials planning and inventory management. This individual will excel in using materials management software and ERP systems and have a robust grasp of supply chain processes and inventory control. Exceptional analytical skills will enable them to interpret production schedules and sales forecasts accurately. Communication and interpersonal skills are paramount, as the role requires effective coordination with suppliers and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Organizational prowess and meticulous attention to detail are essential, ensuring the maintenance of accurate records and streamlined processes. The candidate will be adept at developing cost reduction strategies and performing regular inventory audits and cycle counts. Demonstrable problem-solving abilities will help resolve supplier-related issues and material discrepancies promptly. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, is necessary for thorough data analysis. The ideal candidate will be proactive, able to anticipate material needs, and possess strong negotiation skills to manage supplier relationships effectively. Adaptability, flexibility, and a high level of initiative are critical in navigating the fast-paced, dynamic work environment. They will have a strategic mindset, capable of long-term planning and dedicated to continuous improvement, while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. A certification in APICS CPIM or CSCP will be an added advantage, emphasizing the candidate’s commitment to professional excellence and advanced knowledge in production and inventory management.

On a typical day, you will...

- Analyze and interpret materials requirements from production schedules and sales forecasts.
- Generate purchase orders and requisitions for raw materials and components.
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials to meet production schedules.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels to avoid shortages or overstock situations.
- Conduct regular inventory audits and cycle counts.
- Communicate with the production team to understand material needs and address any discrepancies.
- Track and expedite critical orders to prevent delays in production.
- Maintain accurate records of material transactions and stock levels.
- Resolve any supplier-related issues or discrepancies in deliveries.
- Collaborate with the logistics team to ensure efficient and cost-effective material transportation.
- Forecast future material requirements based on historical data and market trends.
- Utilize materials management software and ERP systems for planning and reporting.
- Develop and implement strategies for materials cost reduction.
- Attend regular meetings with the production and procurement teams to align on material requirements.
- Prepare and present regular reports on inventory status, supply chain performance, and material usage.
- Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards in all materials handling processes.
- Identify and mitigate risks related to material supply disruptions.
- Support new product development projects by ensuring timely availability of materials.
- Work on continuous improvement initiatives to streamline materials planning processes.
- Liaise with the quality control team to ensure that all materials meet required specifications and standards.

What we are looking for

- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational skills
- Proactive and able to anticipate material needs
- Effective communicator, both written and verbal
- Team player with the ability to collaborate across departments
- Adaptable and flexible in a fast-paced environment
- High level of initiative and self-motivation
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively
- Strong negotiation skills for dealing with suppliers
- Results-driven with a focus on continuous improvement
- Reliable and dependable with a strong work ethic
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Strong project management capabilities
- Customer-focused mindset
- Strategic thinker with long-term planning skills
- Tech-savvy with proficiency in materials management software
- Committed to maintaining high standards of quality and safety
- Driven to achieve cost efficiencies and budget adherence
- Experienced in data analysis and interpretation
- Dedicated to fostering positive supplier relationships

What you can expect (benefits)

- Competitive salary range based on experience and qualifications
- Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
- Flexible work schedule options for work-life balance
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
- Employee wellness programs and resources
- Collaborative and supportive work environment
- On-site fitness center and wellness initiatives (if applicable)
- Commuter benefits and transportation reimbursement
- Life and disability insurance coverage
- Employee assistance program (EAP) for personal and work-related support
- Recognition and rewards programs for exceptional performance
- Company-sponsored events and team-building activities
- Access to online learning platforms and training resources
- Opportunities to work on innovative projects and contribute to process improvements
- Mentorship and leadership development programs
- Discounts on company products and services
- Support for participation in industry conferences and workshops

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