Strategic Materials Planner & Inventory Specialist

Sms Group Inc; Brandenburg (KY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

SMS group Brandenburg is seeking a Materials Specialist to manage inventory, forecast needs, quote with vendors, create POs, order materials, and support logistics. You will collaborate with Supervisors and Estimators to determine material requirements and ensure accurate documentation.

The role requires strong Excel, communication, and organizational skills, plus experience with GSS systems. Join a team focused on efficient material flow, BOM upkeep, and scheduling to meet shop demands.

Qualifications

• Associate degree preferred in a related field.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in materials or purchasing.
• Strong communication and organization skills.
• Proficient Excel usage and data handling.
• Interpersonal skills and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• OSHA10 certification, or willing to complete after hire.

Responsibilities

• Be a safety minded worker who is drug free and dependable with an excellent attendance record.
• Work with Supervisors and Estimators to determine products and services needed for the business unit(s).
• Request the minimum number of quotes required per the Purchasing Policy, the quotes will be saved with a copy of the purchase order.
• Enter all purchase orders in GSS accurately maintain electronic PO folders with all relevant materials/documents including vendor quotes, burnout drawings, and any special instructions.
• Ensure purchase orders contain all relevant information for material type, burnout specifications, machine finishes and drawings attached when needed.
• Meet with customers and vendors as required to discuss parts and services needed.
• Work with Estimator when obtaining material and services required for a job won after creating a quote in GSS.
• Work with Shop Supervisors for scheduling and planning of material deliveries to meet customer demands and shop schedules.
• Investigate any discrepancies between Purchasing and Receiving and revise Purchase Orders if required.
• Manage and maintain planning of bill of materials and expedite purchased parts and raw material availability in response to operational plans.
• Work with Operations and Project Managers to update bill of materials, routers and lot sizes.
• Control plant inventory to optimize turnover and minimize investment. Align with the cycle count program and WIP audits to obtain accurate inventory values while effectively utilizing Global Shop Solutions (GSS) software.
• Monitor safety stock levels and establish order policies to balance inventory availability with low levels of investment. Work with suppliers to establish consignment, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) programs and Just in Time (JIT) programs to support on time delivery goals.
• Identify local sources of indirect materials, equipment, services or supplies and vet capabilities
• Manage the indirect supplier selection process based on total cost of ownership (i.e. price, quality, support, capacity, reliability, etc.).
• Support, administer and comply with purchasing agreements or contracts with suppliers in support of Regional Purchasing Manager savings goals and requirements.
• Analyze and identify supply constraints to ensure daily operational support.
• Shipping and receiving duties as needed
• Operation of HD scan lab and tracking of samples.
• Drive a forklift to stage and put away inventory
• Occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
• All other assigned duties

Skills

Oral & written communication

Organizational skills

Excel proficiency

Interpersonal skills

Leadership

GSS systems experience

OSHA10 certification

Education

Associate's degree

Tools

Global Shop Solutions

Job description

SMS group Brandenburg is seeking a Materials Specialist to manage inventory, forecast needs, quote with vendors, create POs, order materials, and support logistics. You will collaborate with Supervisors and Estimators to determine material requirements and ensure accurate documentation.

The role requires strong Excel, communication, and organizational skills, plus experience with GSS systems. Join a team focused on efficient material flow, BOM upkeep, and scheduling to meet shop demands.