Manager Material Requirements Planning

Caterpillar Inc.•Menominee, MI

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it. Job Summary: The Manager, Material Requirements Planning leads the planning and execution of material requirements to ensure the right materials are available at the right time to support production and business goals. This role partners closely with manufacturing, procurement, logistics, and supply chain teams to maintain optimal inventory levels, mitigate risk, and drive operational efficiency. The Manager provides leadership to the Material Requirements Planning team, drives disciplined inventory and planning processes, and uses data‑driven insights to support informed decision‑making. Success in this role requires strong collaboration, analytical thinking, and the ability to balance service, cost, and supply chain constraints in a fast‑paced environment.

Requirements

Inventory Management: Demonstrates experience managing and optimizing inventory levels to support uninterrupted production and material flow. Performs inventory analysis, monitors stock levels, addresses shortages or excess inventory, and makes data‑driven recommendations that balance service levels, cost, and operational requirements.
Supply Chain Management: Works across the end‑to‑end supply chain, partnering with procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and planning teams to align material requirements with business needs. Applies a strong understanding of supply chain processes, dependencies, and constraints to support continuity of supply and improve overall material flow.
Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Analyzes complex planning scenarios, assesses risks and trade‑offs, and makes informed decisions that support operational and business objectives. Uses data, forecasts, and stakeholder input to evaluate options and drive timely, effective decisions in a dynamic environment.
Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves material planning issues such as supply disruptions, demand variability, inventory imbalances, or system gaps. Investigates root causes, collaborates with cross‑functional partners, and implements practical solutions that improve reliability and performance.

Responsibilities

Manages and maintains optimal inventory levels to ensure a consistent flow of raw materials and components to support production requirements while minimizing excess and shortages.
Leads, develops, and manages the Material Requirements Planning team, including staffing, performance management, coaching, and employee development, while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Conducts inventory analysis and develops recommendations for stock levels, inventory strategies, and material planning approaches aligned with business and operational goals.
Collaborates cross‑functionally with manufacturing, procurement, logistics, and supply chain partners to align material requirements with production schedules and demand plans.
Ensures inventory management processes, systems, and controls are followed, including compliance with established policies, procedures, and loss prevention practices.
Oversees the maintenance, support, and effective use of inventory and planning systems to ensure data accuracy and operational efficiency.
Identifies material planning risks, supply constraints, and improvement opportunities, and works with stakeholders to implement solutions that improve reliability and performance.
Supports continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing supply chain trends, improving planning processes, and driving disciplined inventory system usage.