Buyer​/Planner Elizabethtown, NC, US Posted ago

Position: Buyer/Planner Elizabethtown, NC, US Posted a month ago
## Buyer/Planner Elizabethtown, NC, United States
** Position Summary
** We are seeking a
** Buyer/Planner
** to join our fast-paced manufacturing team. This role is responsible for executing day-to-day purchasing activities, managing material shortages, and driving continuous improvement in supply chain processes. The ideal candidate will bring intermediate data analysis skills, ERP experience, and a passion for problem-solving in a Lean manufacturing environment. In this role, you will support a diverse range of materials and suppliers in a high mix–low volume business model.
** Key Responsibilities
**** Purchasing Execution
*** Negotiate, create, and manage blanket and purchase orders per MRP/Kanban needs.
* Ensure timely delivery of materials to meet Kanban levels and production schedules.
* Communicate with suppliers to confirm orders, expedite shipments, and resolve delivery issues.
* Utilize Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP or planning systems to support pull-based replenishment, reduce inventory, and respond to changing demand signals.
** Shortage Management
*** Monitor material availability and proactively address shortages.
* Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Logistics teams to prioritize and resolve critical part issues.
* Escalate supplier-related delays or constraints to Tier 2 and Tier 3 discussions.
** Supplier Relationship Management
*** Build and maintain strong relationships with key and problem suppliers to improve delivery performance, responsiveness, and communication.
* Foster a “help them help us” mindset by working collaboratively with suppliers to understand their constraints and support improvement efforts.
* Work closely with the Sourcing team to align on supplier strategies, escalate chronic issues, and support supplier development initiatives.
* Participate in supplier performance reviews and contribute to corrective action planning when needed.
** Kanban Management
*** Maintain Kanban cards with accurate information on supplier lead time, primary supplier, and average daily usage.
* Adjust Kanban sizes based on demand changes and manage spikes for unexpected requirements.
* Monitor inventory levels and ensure Kanban signals are processed promptly to avoid shortages.
* Support implementation of Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP for improved material flow.
* Develop visual management tools to track Kanban performance and drive continuous improvement.
** Inventory Accuracy
*** Review cycle count reports, perform recounts, reconcile discrepancies, and approve counts.
* Investigate root causes for inaccurate inventory and implement corrective actions.
* Add new parts to the cycle count program as required.
** Continuous Improvement & Lean Practices
*** Lead or participate in Kaizen events and cross-functional improvement initiatives.
* Identify and eliminate waste in purchasing processes using Lean tools and standard work.
* Develop visual management tools and process documentation.
** Required Qualifications
*** Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or Engineering.
* Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a purchasing role within a manufacturing environment.
* Strong Excel skills and basic data analysis capability.
* Experience with ERP systems (e.g., JDE, Oracle, SAP).
* Excellent communication, follow-up, and organizational skills.
* Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving and multitasking ability.
* APICS/CPIM or similar supply chain certification is a plus.
** Preferred Qualifications
*** Experience purchasing materials in a high mix–low volume manufacturing environment.
* Basic understanding of Power BI and data analysis.
* Prior Lean manufacturing experience.
** Ralliant Corporation Overview
** Ralliant, originally part of Fortive, now stands as a bold, independent public company driving innovation at the forefront of precision technology. With a global footprint and a legacy of excellence, we empower engineers to bring next-generation breakthroughs to life — faster, smarter, and more reliably. Our high-performance instruments, sensors, and subsystems fuel mission-critical advancements across industries, enabling real-world impact where it matters most.

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