Materials Planner

JOB SUMMARY:
Place orders with suppliers for production material to be used in the assembly of trucks at three manufacturing plants. Work closely with Purchasing, Engineering, Suppliers, and other functions to ensure that all material arrives at the plants according to guidelines.

Determine production requirements for assigned groupings of manufactured or purchased parts.

Issue purchase and/or shop orders to suppliers to meet manufacturing schedules and maintain proper inventory levels.

Plan and coordinate introduction of new parts and reduce current inventory in conjunction with Plant/Division Engineering, Materials and Purchasing personnel, Marketing, and Assembly.

Negotiate delivery, expediting, or other special charges with and suppliers.

Serve as a focal point for Materials’ supplier management; monitor supplier quality, service, and delivery issues. Communicate issues, information, and resolution to Materials Planner at the plant(s) and/or Corporate Commodity Manager.

Initiate and establish EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) programs in cooperation with Materials Planners at the plants, PACCAR MIS and Kenworth suppliers. Maintain EDI working set for use by Kenworth suppliers and plant planners.

Negotiate packaging , sub-assembly, and program charges with suppliers.

Establish and improve JIT (Just-in-Time) and material flow improvement programs with Assembly, Accounting, Materials, and suppliers.

Review inventory levels for excess, surplus, or obsolete accumulations and initiate or recommend disposal.

Coordinate special projects/programs as required. Qualifications & Skills

Bachelor’s degree in Materials, Operations, or Business with focus on Inventory Control required.

Industry related experience desired.

APICS certification in one or more of the following disciplines is desirable: CPIM, CIRM, and CSCP.

Experience with Kanban and “Lean Material Handling” is desirable.

Team player with excellent leadership, technical and communication skills.

Willingness to travel up to 10%