Material Buyer Planner

About the Role:

The Material Buyer Planner plays a critical role in ensuring the seamless procurement and availability of materials necessary for manufacturing operations. This position is responsible for analyzing production schedules, forecasting material requirements, and coordinating with suppliers to maintain optimal inventory levels. The role demands close collaboration with cross-functional teams including production, engineering, and logistics to align material availability with manufacturing demands. By effectively managing supplier relationships and negotiating purchase terms, the Material Buyer Planner helps minimize costs while ensuring quality and timely delivery. Ultimately, this role contributes directly to the efficiency and profitability of the manufacturing process by preventing production delays and reducing excess inventory.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in material planning, procurement, or supply chain roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and material requirements planning (MRP) software.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret production schedules and inventory data.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Certification in Supply Chain Management (e.g., APICS CPIM or CSCP).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with supplier quality management and audit processes.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with data analysis tools.
• Experience in a specific manufacturing sector relevant to the company’s products.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain accurate material requirement plans based on production schedules and forecasts.
• Source and negotiate with suppliers to secure competitive pricing, quality, and delivery terms.
• Monitor inventory levels and adjust purchasing plans to prevent stockouts or overstock situations.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and logistics teams to align material availability with manufacturing needs.
• Track supplier performance and resolve any issues related to delivery delays, quality concerns, or discrepancies.
• Maintain procurement records and generate reports to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Stay informed about market trends, material price fluctuations, and supply chain risks to proactively manage procurement strategies.

Skills:

The Material Buyer Planner utilizes analytical skills daily to interpret production schedules and forecast material needs accurately, ensuring uninterrupted manufacturing operations. Strong negotiation and communication skills are essential for managing supplier relationships and securing favorable terms that align with company goals. Proficiency in ERP and MRP systems enables efficient tracking of inventory levels and purchase orders, facilitating timely decision-making. Collaboration skills are critical as the role requires coordination with multiple departments to synchronize material availability with production demands. Additionally, problem-solving abilities help address supply chain disruptions and optimize procurement processes for cost savings and operational efficiency.