Material Planning Analyst

Caterpillar Inc.•Mapleton, IL

3d•$89,210 - $133,810•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. As a Material Planning Analyst, you will play a key role in ensuring the seamless flow of materials through the supply chain to support production operations. You will be responsible for developing and executing material plans, monitoring inventory levels, and aligning material availability with production schedules. In this role, you’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including procurement, manufacturing, and logistics to resolve material constraints, improve efficiency, and maintain optimal inventory levels. Your ability to analyze data, forecast demand, and proactively address supply chain challenges will be critical to ensuring on-time delivery and overall operational success.

Requirements

Manufacturing Requirements Planning (MRP): Knowledge with basic MRP concepts, including materials and capacity planning. Familiar with product lifecycle stages and how they impact planning cycles. Understands how to use bills of materials and supporting documentation to ensure proper material availability for production.
Distribution Requirements Planning (DRP): Basic understanding of how inventory is managed and distributed across multiple locations. Familiar with distribution workflows, common bottlenecks, and how materials move through the supply chain.
Problem Solving: Demonstrates the ability to identify issues, evaluate possible solutions, and support decision-making using data and analysis. Comfortable working through operational challenges and helping determine the most effective path forward.
Internal Resource Coordination: Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on priorities and improve efficiency. Supports day-to-day collaboration and helps ensure resources are utilized effectively to meet business objectives.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute material planning strategies for assigned products to ensure all material requirements are met within required timelines
Support production scheduling and coordinate material availability to align with manufacturing plans and business needs
Monitor inventory levels and perform analysis to maintain optimal stock and prevent shortages or excess inventory
Generate demand forecasts and manage replenishment planning to meet service level expectations
Coordinate the flow of materials within the manufacturing facility and between warehouse, suppliers, and production lines
Track and manage material releases, ensuring timely procurement and delivery to support production schedules
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (procurement, production, logistics) to resolve material constraints and improve efficiency
Analyze and address supply chain issues, including delays, shortages, and supplier performance challenges