Buyer/Planner

The Buyer/Planner is responsible for managing the purchasing, demand forecasting, and production planning processes within a metal component manufacturing environment. This role involves utilizing ERP software to handle the procurement of raw materials, the creation of production schedules, and the coordination of materials through to the production floor. The Buyer/Planner ensures that production schedules align with demand and material availability, driving efficiency in both purchasing and manufacturing operations.

What you will do:

• Develop and manage production schedules by balancing forecasted and actual demand, material availability, manufacturing lead times, and production capacity across multiple work centers.
• Ensure timely delivery of materials to support production timelines.
• Use ERP software to manage raw material inventory levels, create and release purchase orders, and track supplier deliveries to ensure that materials are available for production.
• Analyze demand and inventory data to forecast material requirements.
• Utilize the company’s ERP system to create and release work orders, track material orders, and manage production schedules.
• Ensure accurate and up-to-date information in the ERP system to support efficient workflow.
• Monitor inventory levels, including raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods.
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery of materials and resolve any supply chain issues or material shortages.
• Coordinate material usage and certification, ensuring materials meet required quality standards before being released to the production floor.
• Track and update material status to ensure timely availability for manufacturing.
• Develop, measure, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to material procurement, inventory management, and production scheduling.
• Implement solutions based on KPI data to optimize operations and improve efficiency.
• Perform administrative tasks related to closing production orders, maintaining inventory records, and adhering to company policies and standards.
• Ensure proper documentation of all materials used in production.
• Contribute to process improvements in purchasing, demand management, and production planning, using tools such as lean manufacturing principles to optimize workflows and reduce costs

Experience and qualifications required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3+ years of experience in a buying, planning, or material management role within a manufacturing environment, preferably in metal component manufacturing within the aviation industry.
• Proven experience using ERP software for purchasing, production planning, and inventory management.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications to understand material and production requirements.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel or similar data manipulation software.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with suppliers, production teams, and other stakeholders.

Preferred experience and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, operations management, business, or a related field.
• Experience in aerospace manufacturing and familiarity with FAA or AS9100 standards.
• APICS certification or other relevant certifications in supply chain or operations management.
• Lean Manufacturing Green Belt or similar continuous improvement certifications.

Personal attributes that support your success

• Strong intellectual curiosity with a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team to meet production goals.
• High level of integrity and strong ethical foundation.
• A hands-on approach, willing to roll up your sleeves and help drive results.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining a focus on detail and accuracy.