Material Planner

Department: Supply Chain /Logistics

Reports To: Director of Supply Chain

About The Role

The Material Planner ensures the right materials are available at the right time to support production efficiency and customer demand. This role is responsible for coordinating material releases, managing inventory levels, maintaining accurate system data, and fostering strong supplier and internal partnerships. The position covers full lifecycle material ownership—planning, purchasing support, inventory management, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Material Planning & Coordination

• Review MRP-generated requirements and determine accurate quantities for all direct materials, packaging, and related components.
• Release, schedule, and track material deliveries to ensure on-time availability for production.
• Work closely with Production, to ensure material plans align with operational needs.
  
  

Inventory Management

• Maintain accurate inventory levels through routine cycle counting, reconciliation, and variance analysis.
• Investigate and resolve material discrepancies, waste, losses, and usage variances.
• Monitor inventory trends, slow movers, and potential shortages; proactively communicate risks and solutions.
• Support inventory optimization initiatives to reduce carrying costs and minimize obsolete or excess stock.
• Ensure materials are properly set up, stored, staged, and controlled in alignment with safety, quality, and GMP requirements.
  
  

System & Data Management

• Perform routine ERP/MRP maintenance including production order closures, inventory adjustments, and monthly reporting.
• Enter, verify, and maintain accurate material data, bills of materials, and purchasing information.
• Create and update SOPs, training documents, and process guidelines related to material planning and inventory management.
  
  

Supplier Management & Procurement Support

• Maintain positive and productive relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable delivery performance.
• Support sourcing decisions through vendor research, competitive quoting, and component analysis.
• Partner with suppliers on material defect investigations and corrective actions.
  
  

Material Ownership & Continuous Improvement

• Own the full lifecycle of materials: forecasting, ordering, receiving, inventory control, usage, variance resolution, and implementation of new or revised materials.
• Contribute to department and plant-level goals focused on reducing losses, improving reliability, and enhancing overall supply chain performance.
• Demonstrate company values and maintain compliance with all procurement, conduct, safety, and GMP policies.
  
  

Other Responsibilities

• Support plant safety programs and maintain a safe working environment.
• Perform additional tasks and assignments as directed by leadership.
  
  

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong computer proficiency and the ability to learn ERP/MRP and related planning systems quickly.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to collaborate across departments and work independently with minimal supervision.
  
  

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field.
• 2–5 years of material planning, inventory management, or manufacturing experience.
• Experience with an industry-standard ERP system (SAP etc.).
  
  

Working Conditions

• Work performed in a combined office and production facility environment (70% office-30%production floor).
• Production areas range from 35°F to 80°F; hearing protection is required.
• Position requires standing, walking, stair climbing, and occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent use of computers, phones, and standard office equipment.