Planner/Buyer

The Production Planner collaborates with the Operations, Projects, and Procurement teams to ensure materials and resources are aligned with the production schedules. This role manages the end-to-end procurement and material flow process to ensure timely, cost-effective, and quality-driven acquisition of materials and services. This role supports production continuity, project execution, and customer delivery performance by coordinating procurement activities, inventory control, documentation, scheduling support, and cross-functional communication.

Essential Duties

• Inventory & Materials Management
  • Support kitting activities to ensure material readiness for production.
  • Perform and support physical inventory processes.
  • Develop and support cycle count initiatives.
  • Assist with receiving activities as required.
  • Label materials in accordance with quality and traceability standards.
  • Execute SAP transactions including reservations and goods issue postings.
  • Maintain and update backorder report and other material tracking systems.

• Production & Operational Support
  • Create production travelers and compile drawing/documentation packages for manufacturing.
  • Support scheduling and planning activities for lab operations.
  • Participate in daily production meetings, planning sessions, and forecast reviews.
  • Support mini-project initiatives related to material flow improvements.
  • Participate in Order Entry Meetings.
  • Coordinate shipping readiness and documentation to ensure on-time delivery.

• Procurement & Purchase Order Management
  • Create and manage Purchase Requisitions (PRs).
  • Generate and issue Purchase Orders (POs) within SAP.
  • Maintain accurate PO documentation and workflow control within the company electronic document management system
  • Coordinate with key suppliers including intercompany partners.
  • Transmit POs to suppliers and confirm delivery commitments.
  • Expedite material deliveries to mitigate supply risks.
  • Approve POs within electronic document management system.

• Customer & Commercial Support
  • Communicate with customers regarding material availability and delivery schedules.
  • Prepare commercial invoices and packing lists for specific customer requirements.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging team members to identify and implement process enhancements.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Requirements

• Proficiency in inventory management systems and production planning software. SAP experience preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration with team members, suppliers, and cross-functional departments
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in material scheduling
• Strong problem-solving abilities to multitask to accommodate business needs
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and other relevant software tools

Additional Requirements

• Certifications in supply chain management, such as APICS CPIM or CSCP, are desirable 
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and methodologies
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field
• Minimum 2 years of experience in procurement or materials management.
• Experience in a low volume, high mix, customized manufacturing environment.