Entry-Level Buyer/Planner

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

DEPARTMENT: Purchasing / Materials

SUERVISOR: Purchasing Manager

DIRECT REPORTS: None

Position Summary

This position is responsible for supporting CEPA's purchasing and production planning functions by sourcing materials, managing purchase orders, and coordinating production schedules, starting with smaller programs and one-off orders while building toward ownership of larger programs. The actual job to be done is the same core purchasing and planning work the rest of the Buyer/Planner team does, just at a smaller scope while training ramps up. The intended impact is dependable material flow and clear-to-build readiness on the programs this person owns, freeing up the senior Buyer/Planners to focus on the larger, more complex programs.

We're looking for someone early in their purchasing or materials career who is detail-oriented, curious, and eager to learn. Success in this role looks like accurate, on-time purchase orders, reliable production planning on assigned programs, and steady growth in scope and independence over time. This person cares about getting the details right, building strong supplier relationships, and growing into greater ownership, and brings analytical thinking, ERP/Excel skills, and clear communication to the role.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.

Experience:

• 1–2 years of experience in basic purchasing or inventory management. This is an entry-level buyer/planner role: you'll start on smaller programs and one-off orders and grow into ownership of larger programs as you build experience.

Knowledge:

• Working understanding of purchasing, production planning, MRP, inventory control, forecasting, and supply chain operations, or a strong aptitude to learn. Some exposure to ERP/MRP systems (QAD, SAP, EPICOR, or similar) is a plus; full training will be provided.

Skills:

• Must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail, working proficiency in Microsoft Excel, and excellent organizational and communication skills. Ability to prioritize multiple projects and collaborate across departments.

Job Responsibilities

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Source and procure OEM components, machined parts, fabricated assemblies, equipment frames, injection-molded components, sheet metal, raw materials, and other production supplies
• Create, issue, and manage purchase orders to ensure timely material delivery
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance for quality, cost, and delivery
• Resolve supplier issues involving shortages, quality concerns, pricing, and delivery delays
• Evaluate and qualify alternative suppliers and materials to improve cost, quality, and supply continuity

Production Planning

• Plan and purchase materials based on production schedules and demand forecasts
• Coordinate production schedules with outsourced manufacturing partners and subcontractors
• Plan and schedule kitting activities to ensure material availability for production
• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as needed to meet changing priorities

Material Cost Management

• Manage and monitor material costs to support company profitability
• Maintain accurate material pricing and purchasing data within the ERP system
• Support cost accounting activities, including cost analysis, reporting, and variance investigations
• Participate in cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, sourcing strategies, and value engineering

Inventory & Materials Management

• Analyze demand forecasts and inventory levels to maintain optimal inventory while minimizing excess and obsolete materials
• Coordinate delivery schedules to support production requirements
• Monitor inventory accuracy and recommend improvements to inventory control processes
• Collaborate with warehouse and production teams to ensure material availability

Systems & Continuous Improvement

• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to manage purchasing, inventory, production planning, and reporting activities
• Prepare reports and analyze data to support purchasing and planning decisions
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve supply chain performance
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and quality standards

Other responsibilities, initiatives and ad-hoc projects as required.

Internal and External Relationships Internal: Purchasing Manager, senior Buyer/Planners, Production, Engineering, Finance, and Warehouse teams External: Suppliers and vendors

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods, with occasional walking on the production floor. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, consistent with an office located within a manufacturing facility.