Product Buyer/Planner

INDIANA MILLS & MANUFACTURING INC; Illinois; On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Indiana Mills & Manufacturing Inc. is seeking a Product Buyer/Planner to source, purchase, and plan materials to meet production schedules and customer demand.

You will optimize inventory, manage supplier relationships, issue purchase orders, monitor performance, and coordinate launches while using ERP/MRP systems. The role requires a bachelor's in supply chain or related field, 3–5 years of experience, strong analytical and negotiation skills, and a focus on cost reduction and continuous

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in purchasing, planning, or supply chain management.
• Strong understanding of procurement, forecasting, and inventory management.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or equivalent).
• Advanced Excel skills and data analysis capabilities.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or JIT is a plus.
• Certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPM) preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Forecast, plan, and purchase materials aligned with production schedules and forecasts.
• Analyze demand trends and supply constraints to maintain inventory targets.
• Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on price, quality, lead time, and reliability.
• Issue purchase orders and follow up to ensure on‑time delivery.
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to quality, delivery, or pricing.
• Collaborate with internal teams to coordinate launches, inventory transitions, and discontinuations.
• Maintain accurate planning and purchasing data within ERP/MRP systems.
• Participate in cost‑reduction initiatives and continuous improvement in supply chain operations.

Skills

Forecasting

ERP/MRP analysis

Data analysis

Negotiation

Cost control

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

SAP

Oracle

NetSuite

Microsoft Dynamics

Plex

Power BI/Tableau

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Product Buyer/Planner is responsible for the sourcing, procurement, and planning of materials, components, or finished products to meet production and customer demand. This role ensures product availability while optimizing inventory levels, minimizing costs, and maintaining supplier relationships. The Buyer/Planner collaborates closely with internal stakeholders, including Sales, Production, Engineering, and Logistics, to ensure an efficient supply chain.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Forecast, plan, and purchase materials and products in alignment with production schedules, sales forecasts, and inventory targets.
• Analyze demand trends and supply constraints to maintain appropriate inventory levels.
• Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on price, quality, lead time, and reliability.
• Issue purchase orders and follow up to ensure on-time delivery of goods.
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to quality, delivery, or pricing.
• Collaborate with internal teams to coordinate product launches, inventory transitions, and discontinuations.
• Maintain accurate planning and purchasing data within ERP/MRP systems.
• Participate in cost-reduction initiatives and support continuous improvement in supply chain operations.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and ethical sourcing practices.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) including supplier OTIF (on-time in-full), inventory turns, and cost savings.
• Operate and maintain a system (Hot List/War Room) for part shortages to full resolution.

Skills & Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in purchasing, planning, or supply chain management.
• Strong understanding of procurement principles, forecasting, and inventory management.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or equivalent).
• Advanced Excel skills and ability to analyze and interpret data.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Detail‑oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or just‑in‑time (JIT) processes is a plus.
• Certification (e.g., CPIM, CSCP, CPM) preferred but not required.
• Demonstrate strong analytical thinking and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to make data‑informed decisions that support operational efficiency
• Experience in strategic sourcing and managing supplier performance to ensure optimal cost, quality, and delivery outcomes
• A solid understanding of production planning and inventory control is essential for balancing demand with supply while minimizing excess and shortages.
• Proficiency in logistics coordination and a continuous improvement mindset to streamline material flow and processes.

Required Tools:

• ERP/MRP Systems: SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Plex, or similar
• Data Analysis: Advanced Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP), Power BI or Tableau
• Communication & Collaboration: Microsoft Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Zoom
• Project & Workflow Tools: Smartsheet, Trello, or Asana (if applicable)
• Optional SCM Tools: Ariba, Coupa, or Kinaxis (based on company systems)

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to visually inspect and interpret designs on screen and in print.
• Use of functional Core Tools

Working Conditions/Environment:

• This work is deadline‑oriented, requires multitasking, fluctuating work schedule, and flexibility within the workday. Must be able to maintain 24-hour availability, including off‑shift access via phone
• Frequent use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary
• Requires the ability for close vision, distance vision and depth perception
• Requires working and interacting with others, both in person and through phone, electronic, and written correspondence, and the ability to listen effectively, communicate clearly, maintain attention to detail, and perform focused work
• The following motions can be required during the day: Standing or sitting for extended periods of time, stepping up & down, balancing, bending (hip & knees), reaching, standing, walkin