What does an MRP Controller do

Practical Adult Insights; United States; On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Practical Adult Insights is seeking a skilled MRP controller to balance customer demands with product inventory and production levels. The successful candidate will forecast sales, audit inventory, and advise senior management on performance metrics.

With a required bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience, proficiency in ERP systems and professional communication skills are mandatory. This role also values Six Sigma training for enhancing operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as an MRP controller or similar role.
• Master’s degree preferred by some companies.
• Professional certifications like Six Sigma are valued.

Responsibilities

• Create balance between customer demands and inventory.
• Forecast sales and production schedules.
• Audit inventory levels and advise senior management.

Skills

Verbal and written communication skills

Advanced mathematical ability

Professional-level spreadsheet skills

Knowledge of ERP programs

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, supply chain operations or similar fields

Tools

Spreadsheet software

Database management software

Job description

Responsibilities

An MRP (materials resource planner) controller is responsible for creating a balance between customer demands, product inventory, and production levels across various industries such as automotive, government projects, and retail. The role involves forecasting sales and production schedules to determine the requirements needed to meet business and customer needs.

In addition to balancing inventory and production parameters, MRP professionals are involved with employee and interdepartmental relationships. The MRP controller is a member of management who typically reports to a senior management team.

Typical job duties include auditing inventory levels and examining performance metrics. The controller advises senior management on work progress and potential production issues. When existing guidelines fail to meet production needs, the controller may create new parameters and guidelines and recommend additional employee training to improve performance. Some MRP professionals also work with recently closed operations to allocate extra equipment and inventory.

MRP controllers use a master production schedule to coordinate the purchase of materials, the hiring of additional labor, or the acquisition of new equipment. They may also be involved with quality assurance measurements, stock transfers, and shipping orders.

The role requires the ability to foresee and correct any problems that might impact production requirements, demanding a comprehensive understanding of shipping, receiving, production, and employee relations. The controller may serve as a liaison between departments to achieve the company’s production goals.

Qualifications

The successful MRP controller typically possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills. Advanced mathematical abilities—especially in probability and statistics—are also necessary.

Professional-level skills with spreadsheet and database software are vital, as is knowledge of ERP (enterprise resource planning) programs, which manage inventory, financial records, and human resources information across all business areas.

Education & Experience

Most companies require a bachelor’s degree and five years of experience for senior MRP controller positions. Other companies prefer a master’s degree and at least three years of experience as an assistant MRP controller. Relevant degree majors include business, engineering, supply chain operations, or similar fields.

Certifications

Professional certifications, such as Six Sigma training, are valued by many employers.