Buyer/Planner

Responsibilities

We are currently seeking a proactive and detail-driven Planner/Buyer in our West Hartford location to support material planning, procurement, and inventory management for dedicated production lines. In this role, you will ensure materials are available to meet production schedules, maintain accurate MRP data, collaborate across departments, and contribute to continuous improvement within the Supply Chain organization. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys balancing analytical work with supplier and cross-functional interaction. This is an on-site role with limited remote work flexibility as needed.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Planning & Scheduling

• Use and maintain MRP data as the primary tool for planning material requirements
• Create work orders and ensure timely release of materials to support production schedules
• Analyze demand signals, forecast, and production needs to determine appropriate replenishment strategies
• Provide input on inventory strategies for new product introductions, phase-outs, and ongoing production

Procurement & Supplier Management

• Coordinate all procurement activities for assigned purchased parts.
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare supplier proposals, including complex quote packages.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and terms while balancing cost, quality, and schedule requirements.
• Maintain timely control of purchase orders, amendments, shipping notices, and related documentation.

Inventory & Data Accuracy

• Perform weekly cycle counts to maintain 99%+ inventory accuracy.
• Execute inventory transactions and maintain accurate ERP/MRP records.
• Identify and communicate risks related to stock levels, replenishment, and demand changes.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Business Development and Contracts to understand demand drivers and forecast changes.
• Partner with Production, Quality, and Engineering to resolve material issues and support on time delivery.
• Share relevant data and insights with internal teams and external suppliers.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Create and maintain statistical reports by gathering, analyzing, and validating data.
• Support departmental initiatives to improve planning accuracy, supplier performance, and inventory health.
• Contribute ideas and actions that enhance supply chain efficiency and reliability.

Qualifications

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Bachelors Degree in Business, Materials Management, Supply Chain, Technical discipline, or related field.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in planning, scheduling or procurement within a manufacturing environment.
• MRP Experience is required
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience in statistical reporting, forecasting, and understanding financial/operational impacts.
• Strong communication skills and ability to perform under pressure
• Knowledge of Supply Chain Process/Supplier Interface/Purchase Order Placement.
• Understanding of Business Terms and Conditions.
• Must have authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Technical aptitude or experience working with engineered products
• Ability to read/interpret blueprints
• Negotiation or contract management experience
• Aerospace or DFARS compliance experience
• APICS certification
• Working knowledge of JD Edwards
• Willingness to travel up to 10%