Materials Planner - Lean, JIT & Inventory Optimization

Slate Auto; Warsaw (IN); On-site; USD 96,000 - 144,000; Full time

Job summary

Slate is seeking a dedicated Material Planner to ensure timely material availability across production, coordinating with suppliers and internal teams to keep manufacturing running smoothly. You will develop material plans from forecasts and orders, monitor inventory, support Just-In-Time delivery, and drive continuous improvements using Lean and Six Sigma.

Strong analytical skills and ERP/MRP experience are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or related field preferred.
• 5+ years in material and production planning.
• Experience in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or related methodologies.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute material requirements plans based on production forecasts, customer orders, and inventory targets.
• Monitor inventory levels, conduct cycle counts, and collaborate with warehouse staff to maintain accurate records.
• Coordinate with suppliers to confirm delivery schedules and resolve issues related to quality or logistics.
• Collaborate with production and engineering teams to ensure material readiness for launches and changes.
• Participate in lean and Six Sigma projects to optimize material flow and reduce waste.
• Analyze material consumption trends and generate reports for management decision-making.
• Cross-functional collaboration with purchasing, logistics, quality, and engineering to resolve shortages.
• Document material plans, inventory transactions, and supplier communications for audits.

Skills

Analytical mindset

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Excel proficiency

ERP/MRP systems

Cross-functional collaboration

Data interpretation

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management

Equivalent experience in manufacturing/planning

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Plex

FUUZ

Job description

Slate is seeking a dedicated Material Planner to ensure timely material availability across production, coordinating with suppliers and internal teams to keep manufacturing running smoothly. You will develop material plans from forecasts and orders, monitor inventory, support Just-In-Time delivery, and drive continuous improvements using Lean and Six Sigma.

Strong analytical skills and ERP/MRP experience are essential for success.