5 Materials Planner Job Description Templates and Examples

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a strategic and detail-oriented Lead Materials Planner to join our supply chain management team. In this pivotal role, you will drive the planning, coordination, and execution of materials planning processes to optimize inventory levels, enhance production efficiency, and ensure timely delivery of products. Your leadership will foster collaboration across departments and ensure that our materials planning processes align with our business goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of materials planning strategies to meet production demands and minimize excess inventory.
• Analyze demand forecasts, historical trends, and market conditions to accurately project material needs.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring adherence to quality and delivery standards.
• Coordinate with production, logistics, and procurement teams to ensure alignment on materials availability and scheduling.
• Implement and oversee inventory management best practices to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
• Utilize advanced planning systems and tools to support data-driven decision-making and process improvements.
• Mentor and develop junior planners, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in materials planning or supply chain management, with a proven track record of effective inventory management.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make strategic decisions.
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Preferred:

• APICS certification (CPIM or CSCP) or equivalent.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment, particularly in high-volume production settings.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and best practices.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• Proficiency in MRP/ERP systems, such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms.
• Expertise in data analysis tools, including advanced Excel, SQL, or BI tools.
• Familiarity with demand forecasting software and inventory optimization techniques.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Strong leadership capabilities with a focus on team collaboration and development.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with a strategic mindset and attention to detail.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Proactive and results-oriented approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement.

Benefits and Perks

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee wellness programs

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants who may not meet every requirement to apply, as we value diverse experiences and perspectives.

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Planner to join our supply chain team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this critical role, you will leverage your extensive experience in materials management to optimize inventory levels, streamline procurement processes, and enhance overall supply chain efficiency. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring that our operations run seamlessly while meeting the demands of our production schedules.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic materials planning processes, ensuring alignment with production requirements and inventory management best practices.
• Analyze demand forecasts, production schedules, and inventory levels to maintain optimal stock levels and reduce excess inventory.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, procurement, and logistics, to develop effective materials strategies.
• Monitor supplier performance and negotiate contracts to ensure timely delivery of materials while adhering to budgetary constraints.
• Utilize advanced planning systems and tools to drive data-driven decision-making and enhance materials visibility.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency and reducing costs.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in materials planning, inventory management, or supply chain operations.
• Strong understanding of demand forecasting techniques and materials requirements planning (MRP).
• Proven ability to analyze complex data sets and develop actionable insights.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Preferred:

• APICS certification or equivalent professional qualification.
• Experience with ERP systems, such as SAP or Oracle.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• Proficient in data analysis tools, such as Excel, Tableau, or Power BI.
• Experience with inventory management software and MRP systems.
• Knowledge of supply chain optimization techniques and methodologies.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while fostering positive relationships.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on accuracy and efficiency.
• Adaptable and resilient, thriving in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at our facility in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet all the specified qualifications. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us.

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Materials Planner to join our dynamic supply chain team. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your analytical skills to optimize inventory levels and ensure the timely availability of materials required for our operations. You'll play a crucial role in supporting production schedules and minimizing costs while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain accurate inventory forecasts based on production schedules, historical data, and market trends
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of materials, negotiating favorable terms and conditions
• Monitor inventory levels and implement strategies to minimize excess and obsolete stock
• Utilize ERP systems to manage inventory transactions and track material usage
• Analyze data to identify trends and recommend improvements in supply chain processes
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align material planning with production, engineering, and quality goals
• Prepare and present reports on inventory performance and material availability to stakeholders

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in materials planning or inventory management within a manufacturing environment
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis and forecasting techniques
• Experience using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for inventory management
• Ability to communicate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in APICS (CPIM or CSCP) or other relevant supply chain certifications
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Familiarity with demand planning software and inventory optimization tools

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting
• Knowledge of supply chain management software and tools
• Understanding of material requirements planning (MRP) and inventory control processes

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to overcoming challenges
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, changing environment while maintaining focus on goals
• A collaborative mindset with a passion for continuous learning and improvement

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off and flexible work arrangements
• Professional development opportunities
• Wellness programs and employee assistance programs

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if you don't meet every single requirement listed. Your unique experience may be just what we are looking for!

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a detail-oriented Junior Materials Planner to join our supply chain team. In this role, you will assist in managing inventory levels, forecasting demand, and ensuring the timely availability of materials to support production schedules, all while gaining valuable experience in the field of materials planning and supply chain management.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and implementation of inventory management strategies to optimize material availability and minimize costs.
• Collaborate with production and procurement teams to ensure seamless material flow and address any supply disruptions.
• Monitor inventory levels and analyze demand trends to forecast future material requirements.
• Utilize ERP systems to track materials, generate reports, and assist in data analysis for decision-making.
• Support the development of inventory replenishment strategies and inventory optimization initiatives.
• Participate in supplier relationship management to ensure quality and timely delivery of materials.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and data analysis.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a focus on teamwork.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a passion for problem-solving.

Preferred:

• Internship or co-op experience in supply chain, materials planning, or inventory management.
• Familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar.
• Basic understanding of inventory control processes and methodologies.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools and ERP software.
• Understanding of supply chain concepts and inventory management principles.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative mindset with a focus on team success.
• Positive attitude and proactive approach to challenges.

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

As a member of our team, you will enjoy:

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected status. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].