Supply Chain Planner III

VM - ELMHURST 905 S Riverside Dr Elmhurst, IL 60126, USA

Since 1966, Val-Matic Valve has been delivering products and services that are essential in providing clean water and other fluids to industries and homes around the world. Val-Matic manufactures nine types of air valves and is the leading supplier of air valves in North America. As a subsidiary of A.Y. McDonald Industries, our company is family owned and privately operated.

The Supply Chain Planner III is responsible for assurance of supply for purchased and manufactured parts ensuring the efficient, timely, and cost‑effective acquisition of materials, components, and services. This role plays a key part in inventory management, supplier performance, cost‑reduction initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts. The Supply Chain Planner III supports the company’s global procurement strategies and works closely with international suppliers and logistics team.

The Supply Chain Planner III collaborates closely with cross‑functional teams and external suppliers to optimize the supply chain, mitigate risks, and ensure alignment with the company’s operational and strategic objectives.

• Procurement and Cost Management:
  • Creating, releasing, and monitoring purchase orders through receipt. Ensure timely delivery and resolve discrepancies with suppliers or internal teams.
  • Expedite past due orders and coordinate quality, pricing, and delivery issues with suppliers.
  • Work closely with planning, operations, quality, and finance teams to align sourcing activities with production schedules and business goals.
  • Contribute to the development of strategies to reduce costs and lead times while maintaining quality and reliability.
  • Identify opportunities to improve buying practice for cost reduction and reduce transactional burden through smarter ordering strategies.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure consistent quality and delivery performance.
  • Monitor supplier performance using established metrics (quality, delivery, cost, and service) and address any issues promptly.
  • Collaborate with suppliers on improvement initiatives to enhance overall supply chain efficiency.
• Inventory Management:
  • Plan and schedule production jobs.
  • Maintain accurate part data within the system.
  • Ensure parameters support efficient replenishment, productivity, and material flow.
  • Review and maintain stocking levels. Support demand planning processes.
• Optimization and Continuous Improvement:
  • Provide support to the Sourcing Manager in developing and executing strategies.
  • Identify potential risks in the supply chain and recommend mitigation strategies.
  • Support the development of contingency plans to address supply disruptions or changes in market conditions.
  • Ensure all buying and planning activities comply with company policies, ethical standards, and international trade regulations.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of supplier contracts, pricing agreements, and performance evaluations.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, engineering, or related.
• 3+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, preferably in the manufacturing industry.
• Experience working with international suppliers is preferred with knowledge in trade compliance and import shipment logistics.
• Strong analytical, project management and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and procurement tools; advanced skills in Excel and data analysis.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel to supplier and manufacturing sites.

• On Time Delivery
• Cost savings are achieved
• Accuracy and timeliness of data and reporting
• Contribution to company-wide operational efficiency and profitability

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a co-worker to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential…