JOB SUMMARY:

The Material Planner is responsible for supporting the supply plans, translating demand into creating orders to support production, including materials management of raw & pack, work- in-process, excess, and obsolete inventory. The material planner’s responsibilities include determining material specifications, creating and maintaining inventory schedules, coordinating with internal departments, and managing external stakeholder relations. This role requires effective communication, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate with suppliers, production teams, and other internal stakeholders. The Material Planner plays a critical role in maintaining optimal inventory levels while minimizing costs and ensuring uninterrupted production or operation activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Inventory Planning and Management:

• Analyze demand patterns, production schedules, and inventory levels to determine optimal inventory targets and reorder points.
• Develop and maintain an effective inventory management system to ensure adequate stock levels while minimizing excess or obsolete inventory.
• Coordinate with production teams and other stakeholders to forecast future material requirements and plan procurement accordingly.
• Regularly monitor and analyze inventory data, identify trends, and implement appropriate corrective actions to optimize inventory performance.

Production & R&D Support:

• Issue work orders and material to either production team or R&D team
• Create and issue material kits as needed
• Manage and run MRP system reports and act upon information to either buy more material or issue work orders to keep operations going
• Communicate forecasts and procurement plans effectively to internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure alignment and minimize supply chain disruptions.

Continuous Improvement:

• Monitor industry trends, technological advancements, and market conditions related to material procurement and planning.
• Identify and implement best practices, process improvements, and innovative strategies to optimize material management.
• Participate in cross-functional teams and projects focused on enhancing supply chain efficiency and effectiveness.

Procurement Management (limited or as required):

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Proven experience in material procurement, planning, and inventory management, preferably in a manufacturing or operational environment.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain principles, procurement processes, and inventory control methods.
• Proficient in using inventory management software, forecasting tools, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, perform trend analysis, and make data-driven decisions.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills to effectively interact with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail, accuracy, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma or other process improvement methodologies is a plus.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Material Buyer/Planner role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position.

Employment Eligibility:

Employment with STC Material Solutions may require or otherwise provide access to data and technology controlled by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). To ensure applicants will be able to carry out duties associated with employment, STC Material Solutions may offer employment only to applicants who qualify as a “U.S. person,” including U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other “protected individuals,” as defined by applicable law. No sponsorship is available for this position.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is normally performed on site at STC Material Solutions office in Santa Ana, CA, but could require travel both domestic and international. Office work is performed in a climate-controlled office environment. Proper safety equipment is provided by STC Material Solutions when/where necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Office work involves standing and walking for brief periods, but most work is from a seated position. Travel work involves driving, flying, and walking with luggage. There is potential for eyestrain from reading detailed materials & computer screen. Deadlines, workloads during peak periods, travel and changing priorities may cause increased stress levels.

Superior Technical Ceramics Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and offers employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, creed, color, religious belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, place of birth, physical or mental disability, or veteran status