Buyer-Planner

About the position

LIGHTERA has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in American business, which goes back to Alexander Graham Bell and the invention of the telephone more than a century ago. We have a proven track record of being first in the industry with application specific fibers, optical connectors, ribbon cables, erbium doped fibers, Raman fiber lasers, fiber gratings and more. Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and supplying the best optical fibers, fiber cable and components and devices for our customers, with exceptional service that creates value for our shareholders, customers and employees. To do so, we must continue shaping the future of communications by applying the best minds to the challenges our customers will continually face. We currently seek a Buyer-Planner to join our division located in Avon, CT, and help support our continued business growth. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling and assisting with purchasing for production departments to meet production and quality requirements. They are tasked with resolving any discrepancies related to work orders, working closely with Manufacturing, Production Support, Quality, EH&S, Material Control and Customer Service departments to coordinate. By leveraging data analytics and forecasting models, the Buyer-Planner anticipates future production needs to prevent overstock or stockouts. The successful Buyer-Planner must possess excellent communication skills and the ability to negotiate effectively to secure the best terms and pricing. They should also demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities and be capable of making quick decisions in a dynamic production environment. Their role is pivotal in ensuring that the entire manufacturing process runs smoothly and efficiently, meeting both internal performance targets and customer expectations.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and purchase for production departments to meet production and Quality requirements using available business systems.
• Work closely with Manufacturing, Production Support teams, Quality department, EH&S, Material Control, Customer Service, etc.
• Responsible for the development, oversight, and maintenance for all buyer-planning functions related to the assigned MFG department(s).
• Coordinate manufacturing schedules in terms of customer service requirements, while simultaneously optimizing low inventories, managing supply through MRP/Supply and Demand.
• Notify Manager of necessary procedure changes, reflecting current best practices, for ISO 9001& 13485 compliance.
• Receive/Process requisitions, quoting/purchasing for various supplies and parts, by working with supported departments.
• Expedite as necessary, or as directed.
• Reduce costs through proactive vendor management and improve service by maintaining supplier relationships.
• Make suggestions to adjust inventory levels (safety stock) based on usage and new business opportunities.
• Maintain confidentiality when working with proprietary information.
• Maintain all Purchasing/Planning documentation, as it pertains to procedure; including Purchase Orders and Receiving documentation (COO, COA).
• Reconcile receiving and accounting issues.
• Ensure accuracy of Production Schedules based on MRP, Sales Forecast, and Production Capabilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Business, Marketing and/or Engineering.
• High School Diploma required. Associates or Bachelor's degree preferred. Experience valued.
• Effective communication: Be able to express yourself clearly and listen actively to others. Ability to communicate what you want or need while also respecting others.
• Teamwork: A valuable interpersonal communication skill that involves using other skills like communication, active listening, flexibility, and responsibility.
• Must be willing and able to learn in a fast-paced environment, and follow written procedure.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office required.
• Knowledge of MRP system functionality, Inventory Control Practices, Material Flow, Shop Order, Continuous Improvement and ISO 9000.
• Knowledge of JD Edwards, Bill of Materials, Routers, Prints and Item Masters preferred.
• Ability to train others on existing procedures.
• Duties require written and verbal communication skills, excellent organization, visual attention to detail computer skills, blueprint reading, and working knowledge of MRP and inventory control.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Generous benefits programs, including medical, dental, tuition reimbursement and a matching 401(k) plan.