For more than 40 years, Calian has been solving the world’s most complex problems by pairing the brightest minds with powerful technology. Calian solutions impact the world; from the satellites in space that connect us to the farms that feed us, from the medical professionals who care for us to the governments, schools and companies that make the world better every day.

Position Overview

The Planner/Buyer is a key supply chain role responsible for both planning production material requirements and executing purchasing activities to support manufacturing operations for both Calian Advanced Technologies and Calian Composites. This dual-function position ensures materials are available on time, at the right quantity and cost, while maintaining inventory accuracy and supporting continuous production flow. The Planner/Buyer works closely with suppliers, production teams, inventory control, and logistics to balance supply and demand, minimize downtime, and drive operational efficiency.

This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to respond quickly to changing production needs, supplier performance issues, or inventory fluctuations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan and schedule material requirements based on production forecasts, customer orders, and inventory levels to ensure uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
• Create and manage purchase orders for raw materials, components, and supplies in alignment with production needs and lead times.
• Monitor and adjust production plans as needed to address changes in demand, supplier delays, or production issues.
• Maintain optimal inventory levels to support production while minimizing excess stock and carrying costs.
• Track and expedite open orders, ensuring timely delivery and resolving any issues with suppliers related to delays, shortages, or quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—including production, engineering, inventory control, and quality—to align material planning with operational priorities.
• Analyze material usage, lead times, and supplier performance to improve procurement strategies and enhance supply chain efficiency.
• Support supplier selection and evaluation, ensuring quality, cost, and delivery requirements are met.
• Maintain accurate records in SAP, including material master data, planning parameters, and purchase history.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to streamline procurement and planning processes and reduce lead times and costs.
• Problem Solving:
  • Identify and address material shortages, delays, or overages by analyzing production needs, supplier performance, and inventory data.
  • Investigate root causes of procurement or planning issues such as missed deliveries, excess inventory, or inaccurate forecasts, and implement corrective actions.
  • Resolve supplier issues (e.g., quality concerns, delivery failures, pricing discrepancies) through effective communication and negotiation.
  • Adjust production and material plans in real time to respond to unexpected demand changes, machine downtime, or supply chain disruptions.
  • Evaluate alternative suppliers or materials when faced with shortages or cost increases, ensuring minimal impact on production timelines.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, engineering, quality, and logistics teams to align on solutions and ensure smooth production flow.
  • Use data-driven analysis to make informed decisions, improve forecast accuracy, and optimize procurement strategies.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Supply Chain Management
• Up to 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with combined responsibilities in planning and procurement.
• Strong knowledge of SAP and Microsoft Dynamics
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret demand trends, lead times, and production schedules.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills, for working with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory management principles, and supply chain best practices.

Additional Requirements

• Must be comfortable with an onsite role.
• Must be comfortable occasionally entering production or warehouse areas to support material flow coordination and address supply chain issues as needed.

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