Buyer/Planner

API Heat Transfer•Germantown, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

General ThermoDynamics, an API Heat Transfer Company, is seeking a Buyer/Planner to join its manufacturing team in Germantown, Wisconsin. The role supports manufacturing operations by ensuring materials are available when needed, production schedules stay on track, and customer commitments are met. It combines procurement, production planning, inventory management, and supplier relationship responsibilities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The Buyer/Planner develops production schedules based on customer demand, forecasts, inventory, and manufacturing capacity; coordinates priorities with internal teams; releases and manages work orders in the ERP system; and adjusts plans in response to changing priorities or material shortages. The position also purchases materials and supplies, manages purchase orders and supplier performance, supports sourcing and cost-reduction efforts, and monitors inventory and MRP recommendations. The role contributes to continuous improvement in planning accuracy, inventory control, ERP data integrity, and supply chain performance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business, Manufacturing Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least 3 years of experience in purchasing, production planning, scheduling, or supply chain management within a manufacturing environment.
Experience using ERP/MRP systems.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency.
Excellent organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
Strong attention to detail and urgency.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
Effective communication with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Sound decision-making using data and operational metrics.
Customer-focused approach and commitment to operational excellence.

Nice To Haves

Experience in industrial manufacturing, engineered products, HVAC, heat exchangers, metal fabrication, or related industries.
APICS CPIM or CSCP certification.
Experience supporting make-to-order or engineer-to-order manufacturing operations.
Familiarity with supplier performance management and inventory optimization techniques.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain production schedules based on customer demand, forecasts, inventory levels, and manufacturing capacity.
Coordinate production priorities with Operations, Engineering, and Customer Service teams.
Release and manage work orders within the ERP system.
Monitor schedule adherence and adjust plans for changing priorities or material shortages.
Support on-time delivery through proactive planning and communication.
Purchase raw materials, components, and supplies required for manufacturing.
Issue and manage purchase orders and monitor supplier delivery performance.
Work with suppliers to improve lead times, quality, and service levels.
Resolve material shortages and expedite critical orders when needed.
Support sourcing initiatives, supplier evaluations, and cost-reduction efforts.
Analyze inventory levels and material requirements to support production schedules.
Maintain appropriate inventory balances while minimizing excess and obsolete materials.
Monitor MRP recommendations and planning parameters.
Assist with cycle counts and inventory accuracy improvements.
Collaborate with warehouse and manufacturing teams to resolve inventory discrepancies.
Identify opportunities to improve planning accuracy, inventory control, and supply chain performance.
Support ERP data integrity and process standardization initiatives.
Participate in cross-functional projects related to capacity planning, supplier development, and operational excellence.