Instrument & Set Planner

Alphatec Spine•Carlsbad, CA

1d•$95,000 - $105,000

About The Position

We’re seeking an Instrument Planner to join our Operations team, with a focus on forecasting, set planning, and master data accuracy for surgical instruments. In this role, you will build and maintain instrument and set forecasts, partner with cross-functional teams, and ensure sufficient instrument & set availability to support product launches and ongoing clinical demand. You’ll help establish efficient processes, maintain accurate planning data in SAP, and drive improvements that strengthen forecasting accuracy and long-term scalability.

Requirements

Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail.
Positive attitude and mentality of continuous improvement.
Effective communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
For roles based in the United States that require access to hospital facilities, must be eligible for and maintain credentials at all required hospitals, including meeting any applicable physical requirements or vaccination requirements (including the COVID-19 vaccine, as applicable).

Nice To Haves

Basic knowledge of SQL and Power Query is a plus, and we highly value a willingness to learn these tools on the job.

Responsibilities

Establish and maintain ABC SKU logic for instrumentation.
Build the instrument replenishment forecast from the ground up, incorporating fleet growth, component usage, and service level targets.
Integrate replenishment forecasts into safety stock and monthly planning processes.
Partner with planners to define first-time buy/NPI requirements for Alpha and launch sets.
Launch and lead recurring meetings with Product teams to:
Review forecasted quantities.
Capture feedback on complaints, damage rates, design changes, and unique/non-standard components.
Partner with International Marketing to establish target thresholds for in-market safety stock, including return/service processes for damaged parts.
Collaborate with Sales Ops to create processes for recovering stock removed from sets to prevent shortages and unnecessary orders.
Work closely with Demand Planning to ensure instrument and set forecasts align with implant demand and case forecasts.
Execute the set planning process by:
Maintaining accurate master data in SAP & Excel.
Managing NPI conversions.
Calculating set requirements and maintaining forecast models.
Ensure accurate “do not buy” signals and SAP order signals are maintained, so the Purchasing team can execute confidently.
Maintain accurate records and databases related to set inventory and planning forecasts.
Support ongoing initiatives to improve planning efficiency and reporting accuracy (e.g., safety stock logic, master data integrity, automation of forecasts).
Drive enhancements to forecast models and processes to reduce manual work and improve decision-making.
Participate in cross-functional projects that strengthen end-to-end planning, replenishment, and inventory management.