What are the responsibilities and job description for the Materials Manager position at MEPPI?
Powering Operational Excellence Through Strategic Materials Leadership!
MEPPIs Switchgear Division (SWGD) is seeking an experienced and results-driven Materials Manager to lead purchasing, material planning, warehousing, shipping, and receiving operations. In this role, you will ensure inventory efficiency and accuracy, support production and customer commitments, optimize total cost, and strengthen overall supply base performance while maintaining a strong focus on safety and quality.
What Youll Do
Lead Materials & Logistics Operations: Direct all Materials Department activities supporting Switchgear products, ensuring customer commitments are met through effective material planning, logistics, and execution with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, quality, and positive employee relations.
Oversee Purchasing & Inventory Strategy: Manage purchasing activities with focus on optimizing inventory efficiency, production support, total cost, and supplier performance.
Manage Warehouse & Distribution Functions: Oversee material planning, warehousing, shipping, and receiving operations to meet throughput, accuracy, cost, quality, safety, and delivery goals. Take corrective action when performance issues arise.
Drive Supply Chain Best Practices: Develop and implement best-in-class techniques to measure and improve supply chain performance related to delivery, cost, quality, responsiveness, and inventory turns.
Support Quality Resolution: Participate in the review and disposition of non-conformances as required.
Ensure Inventory Accuracy: Review cycle count results and annual physical inventory outcomes; recommend and implement improvements when needed.
Operate Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ): Manage and ensure compliance of the Divisions Foreign Trade Zone operations.
Develop & Lead Teams: Manage Materials and Purchasing staff in line with Company policies; provide training, cross-training, development opportunities, performance evaluations, and compensation input.
Administer Wage Programs: Operate within shop wage programs, including skill assessment and testing for employee progression.
Champion Safety Initiatives: Partner with Corporate and Division safety personnel to execute safety programs and ensure compliance.
Support Productivity Improvements: Collaborate with productivity improvement teams to implement JIT, Kaizen, and efficiency initiatives.
Manage Budgets: Prepare and manage the Materials Department operating budget and capital expenditures.
Lead Special Projects: Initiate and manage special projects focused on improving quality, productivity, safety, and operational effectiveness.
Represent the Division Professionally: Further the goals and professional image of SWGD through cooperative, timely interaction with MEPPI departments, visitors, and customers.
Champion Policies & Compliance: Maintain strong knowledge of MEPPIs Quality, Safety, and Environmental policies and clearly communicate their importance and impact.
What You Bring
Education & Experience:
- Bachelors degree in Business or Engineering
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment
- Minimum of 5 years of management experience
- Or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Technical & Leadership Expertise:
- Advanced knowledge of made-to-order manufacturing environments and inventory management practices
- Strong understanding of supply chain operations, logistics, and procurement strategy
Skills & Attributes:
- Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills
- Advanced interpersonal, communication, and presentation abilities
- Proven ability to lead diverse teams and manage complex operational priorities
Technology Proficiency:
- Advanced computer skills with emphasis on Microsoft Office and business systems
Physical & Travel Requirements
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% as required
Whats in It for You?
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: MEPPI pays 90% of medical, dental, and vision plan costs
- Retirement Plans: 401(k) with company match
- Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation accrual after 90 days, plus 12 paid holidays annually
- Career Development: Leadership training, professional development programs, and educational assistance
- Exclusive Employee Perks: Profit sharing, access to our 24/7 fitness center in Warrendale, PA, and participation in MEPPIs Wellness Program
Why MEPPI
At MEPPI, material operations are a critical driver of manufacturing excellence. As part of SWGD, you will help deliver reliable, high-quality switchgear solutions while supporting continuous improvement and operational efficiency across the Division.
About Us
Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. is a leader in North American power systems, rail transportation, and switchgear technologies. The Switchgear Division plays a vital role in supporting dependable electrical infrastructure for customers across the continent.
Equal Opportunity Employer
MEPPI is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants are considered fairly and without discrimination.
Notice to Agencies and Search Firms
MEPPI does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies or search firms. Resumes submitted without a signed agreement become the property of MEPPI, and no fee will be paid if a candidate is hired as a result of an unsolicited referral.