Position Summary

We are seeking a Buyer/Planner to join our fast-paced manufacturing team. This role is responsible for executing day-to-day purchasing activities, managing material shortages, and driving continuous improvement in supply chain processes. The ideal candidate will bring intermediate data analysis skills, ERP experience, and a passion for problem-solving in a Lean manufacturing environment. In this role, you will support a diverse range of materials and suppliers in a high mix–low volume business model.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing Execution

Negotiate, create, and manage blanket and purchase orders per MRP/Kanban needs.
Ensure timely delivery of materials to meet Kanban levels and production schedules.
Communicate with suppliers to confirm orders, expedite shipments, and resolve delivery issues.
Utilize Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP or planning systems to support pull-based replenishment, reduce inventory, and respond to changing demand signals.

Shortage Management

Monitor material availability and proactively address shortages.
Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Logistics teams to prioritize and resolve critical part issues.
Escalate supplier-related delays or constraints to Tier 2 and Tier 3 discussions.

Supplier Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with key and problem suppliers to improve delivery performance, responsiveness, and communication.
Foster a “help them help us” mindset by working collaboratively with suppliers to understand their constraints and support improvement efforts.
Work closely with the Sourcing team to align on supplier strategies, escalate chronic issues, and support supplier development initiatives.
Participate in supplier performance reviews and contribute to corrective action planning when needed.

Kanban Management

Maintain Kanban cards with accurate information on supplier lead time, primary supplier, and average daily usage.
Adjust Kanban sizes based on demand changes and manage spikes for unexpected requirements.
Monitor inventory levels and ensure Kanban signals are processed promptly to avoid shortages.
Support implementation of Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP for improved material flow.
Develop visual management tools to track Kanban performance and drive continuous improvement.

Inventory Accuracy

Review cycle count reports, perform recounts, reconcile discrepancies, and approve counts.
Investigate root causes for inaccurate inventory and implement corrective actions.
Add new parts to the cycle count program as required.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Practices

Lead or participate in Kaizen events and cross-functional improvement initiatives.
Identify and eliminate waste in purchasing processes using Lean tools and standard work.
Develop visual management tools and process documentation.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or Engineering.
Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a purchasing role within a manufacturing environment.
Strong Excel skills and basic data analysis capability.
Experience with ERP systems (e.g., JDE, Oracle, SAP).
Excellent communication, follow-up, and organizational skills.
Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving and multitasking ability.
APICS/CPIM or similar supply chain certification is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience purchasing materials in a high mix–low volume manufacturing environment.
Basic understanding of Power BI and data analysis.
Prior Lean manufacturing experience.