Materials Planner

Job DetailsJob Location: Dalton, GA 30720Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 2 Year DegreeTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: DayTechniplas is a global supplier of sophisticated plastic components and design-focused, multifunctional surfaces that are primarily for the automotive sector, as well as the industrial, consumer goods, medical and other markets. The company’s products follow industry trends like weight reduction and vehicle electrification, innovative operating concepts, high-quality surface finishes, and an increasing focus on convenience and safety. The Techniplas Group runs 30 sites worldwide with production, sales and / or technology hubs and employs just under 4,000 members of staff. The company serves customers and platforms around the world, focusing on technological expertise and collaboration with customers in the fields of design and engineering. Techniplas has long-term relationships with many of the world’s leading automotive and industrial OEMs. SUMMARY OF POSITION The Materials Planner is responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating the flow of materials to ensure production and customer requirements are met on time and at optimal inventory levels. This position analyzes demand forecasts, production schedules, and inventory data to determine material requirements, and works closely with Purchasing, Production, and Supply Chain to prevent shortages, minimize excess inventory, and support on-time delivery. The Materials Planner helps drive data-informed planning decisions that improve efficiency and customer satisfaction. JOB DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Develop and maintain material requirements plans based on production schedules, sales forecasts, and inventory levels. Monitor inventory levels and reorder points to prevent stockouts and minimize excess or obsolete inventory. Place, expedite, and track purchase orders and work orders to ensure materials arrive on time to support production schedules. Analyze demand trends and production data to identify potential material shortages or supply risks, and proactively resolve them. Coordinate with Purchasing and Suppliers to confirm delivery schedules, resolve discrepancies, and address lead-time changes. Partner with Production and Operations to align material availability with production schedules and adjust plans as priorities shift. Maintain accurate data in the ERP/MRP system, including lead times, safety stock levels, lot sizes, and reorder parameters. Track and report key planning metrics such as inventory turns, fill rates, and on-time delivery performance. Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for material shortages, excess inventory, or planning discrepancies. Participate in S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) processes, providing input on material availability and constraints. Identify opportunities to improve planning processes, reduce carrying costs, and enhance supply chain efficiency. Assist with new product introductions and engineering changes by planning material transitions and managing phase-in/phase-out of components. Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements related to materials management. Apply Lean and Six Sigma techniques to improve planning accuracy and reduce waste in the materials process. Qualifications Bachelor's Degree plus 2-4 years of experience in materials planning, production planning, or supply chain, or equivalent combination of education and experience APICS/ASCM certification (CPIM) preferred Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and strong Excel skills Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and translate insights into actionable plans Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Clear communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving abilities Availability to travel occasionally as needed