Buyer/ Planner

Cytek Biosciences Inc•Fremont, CA

14h

About The Position

The Buyer / Planner at Cytek Biosciences plays a critical role in ensuring that finished goods, components, and subassemblies are delivered to our fulfillment and packaging sites on time and in the quantities required to support manufacturing and research initiatives. This role requires strong ownership of supply planning, active management of supply constraints with vendors, and diligence in maintaining accurate MRP/ERP systems. The successful candidate will manage material planning and tracking systems, monitor key performance indicators, and drive continuous improvement in supply chain processes. This position is global in scope and requires effective cross-functional collaboration with production, external suppliers, operations, NPI, engineering, logistics, and material handling teams. We are seeking a proactive professional with a solid understanding of manufacturing processes and strong Supply Chain expertise.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
5+ years of experience in Purchasing, Planning/Scheduling, or Supply Chain Management.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data to optimize production and inventory.
Proven proficiency in MS Excel and data analysis tools.
Knowledge and experience with MRP/ERP systems and forecasting methodologies.
Ability to collaborate and problem solve in a cross-functional, global environment.
Self-starter capable of managing daily planning tasks and projects simultaneously.
Team-oriented with a collaborative mindset.
Ability to support extended hours or weekends, as needed.
Ability to remain in standing or seated positions for extended periods.
Prolonged periods working at a desk and using a computer.

Responsibilities

Ensure all demand sources (production, aftermarket, engineering, etc.) are supported with accurate planning.
Manage safety stock levels and optimize logistical efficiency by determining appropriate EOQs.
Maintain and optimize planning system parameters and master data to reflect current supply chain needs.
Prepare and deliver regular forecasts and supply analyses to internal leadership and suppliers.
Provide clear, data-driven status reporting to management.
Apply analytical expertise to balance inventory targets while minimizing obsolete stock.
Build and maintain strong operational partnerships with assigned suppliers.
Serve as the primary point of contact with suppliers for delivery status, issue escalation, and resolution.
Coordinate supplier ramp-up and ramp-down activities, especially during new product introductions.
Partner with Operations and business stakeholders to identify planning process and system improvements.
Support cross-functional efforts in demand planning and supply problem solving.
Identify planning gaps and risks and propose actionable solutions to support plans and schedules.
Procure raw materials, components, subassemblies, and MRO items in a timely manner to meet production schedules.
Manage supply levels by balancing current demand, forecasts, and lead times.
Issue and enter purchase orders; maintain daily communication with suppliers regarding delivery expectations.
Work directly with cross-functional partners in R&D, Operations, Supply Chain, Customer Service, Receiving, and Accounting.
Review purchase requisitions for accuracy and completeness.
Expedite supplier shipments, proactively resolve delivery delays, and communicate impacts to stakeholders.
Respond to supply shortages, quality issues, and support emergency orders as needed.
Perform cycle counts, month-end inventory reconciliations, and aged inventory reviews.
Calculate manufacturing and purchasing costs, manage surplus and obsolete inventories effectively.
Utilize inventory models to calculate reorder points, safety stock, and rebuild levels.
Maintain high levels of inventory accuracy through audits, cycle counting, and inventory reconciliation.
Generate detailed reports on inventory financials, turnover metrics, and performance indicators.
Support lean initiatives such as Kanban card requirements and participate in kaizen events to reduce waste and improve material flow.