Strategic Purchasing & Inventory Planner Relocation

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.; Sugar Land (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible health plans

401(k) matching

Generous PTO

Relocation packages within the United 

Job summary

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. in Sugar Land, Texas is seeking a Purchasing Planner to support procurement activities, supplier coordination, and inventory planning.

You will evaluate purchasing needs, monitor market trends, coordinate timely procurement of materials, and support short- and long-term purchasing strategies to optimize costs and maintain inventory levels for strategic materials. Responsibilities include managing POs, liaising with suppliers on lead times and quality, comparing

Qualifications

• Authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or a buyer-related role.
• Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Working knowledge of procurement processes, sourcing methodologies, and the purchasing lifecycle.
• Ability to support supplier negotiations, evaluate purchasing costs, and identify opportunities for cost savings.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate in a multicultural team environment.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing business needs and operational priorities.

Responsibilities

• Process and manage purchase orders, monitor delivery schedules, and resolve purchasing discrepancies, including shortages and RMAs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for suppliers regarding order status, lead times, and quality-related concerns.
• Obtain and compare supplier quotations, support cost-breakdown analysis, and provide information to assist purchasing decisions.
• Collaborate with warehouse teams to align purchasing activities with inventory requirements and operational demand.
• Identify and recommend opportunities to improve procurement processes, workflows, and operational efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

SAP

Microsoft Office

Procurement knowledge

Supplier negotiations

Cost savings

Communication

Time management

Multicultural teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management / Business Administration

Master's degree in Supply Chain Management / Business Administration

Lean Six Sigma certification

CPP / CSCP certifications

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office

Job description

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. in Sugar Land, Texas is seeking a Purchasing Planner to support procurement activities, supplier coordination, and inventory planning.

You will evaluate purchasing needs, monitor market trends, coordinate timely procurement of materials, and support short- and long-term purchasing strategies to optimize costs and maintain inventory levels for strategic materials. Responsibilities include managing POs, liaising with suppliers on lead times and quality, comparing