SPD - Operations Specialist

Posted Friday, July 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM

EQI Specialty Products Division

Westlake, OH
Reports to

EQI is a global sourcing and supply chain partner specializing in metal castings, forgings, and fabrications. With a diversified supplier base across the world, EQI manages the full product lifecycle—from development through logistics and vendor‑managed inventory—helping customers mitigate risk, improve flexibility, and ensure reliable delivery worldwide.

The Demand Planner, based in Cleveland, Ohio, is responsible for ensuring products are delivered to customers on time while providing best-in­-class customer service. This position reports to the Sr. Operations Specialist as part of the Operations Team at EQI Specialty Products Division. Success in this role requires a high level of coordination throughout the organization, especially with EQI Specialty Products Division’s Account Managers, Engineers, and global staff involved in Production Control and Logistics.

• Acts as the main point of contact for daily communication with EQI Specialty Products Division’s customers regarding orders, shipments, and customer forecasts
• Responsible for maintaining inventory levels based on customer forecasts, min/max parameters, and special seasonal considerations such as Lunar New Year
• Specific duties include:
  • Reviewing and analyzing customer forecasts and demand plans, with a focus on optimizing inventory for EQI Specialty Products Division relative to forecast
  • Monitoring inventory stock levels in relation to EQI Specialty Products Division’s strategic inventory objectives
  • Maintaining and performing to customer commitments
  • Submitting requisitions for purchase orders based on customer demand analysis
  • Placing purchase orders with EQI Specialty Products Division suppliers
  • Providing value‑added customer interactions related to forecast management and purchase order changes
  • Placing ad hoc customer orders as needed
• Plans and monitors shipments from suppliers to customers, including oversight of freight handling, container quality, and functionality
• Serves as the first point of contact for customer concerns, including:
• Stock levels/timeliness
• Damage/claims
• Consolidation
• Freight/inventory costs
• Additional responsibilities include:
• Develop reports and programs with warehouse to help meet customer schedules
• Proactively communicating with customers and suppliers to achieve on‑time delivery
• Responsible for developing and maintaining customer “part file” data within EQI Specialty Products Division’s ERP system, including:
• Item master and customer detail
• Open foundry purchase orders
• Sales orders and forecasts
• Maintenance of the purchase order summary
• Creates and maintains reports as requested by customers, including:
• Open purchase orders and shipping reports
• Expedite reports
• Warehouse inventory and scheduling reports
• Other duties as assigned by the Sr. Operations Specialist

• 2-3 years of relevant customer service and/or logistics work experience
• Demonstrated high level of interpersonal skills
• High level of analytical skills utilizing data from multiple sources
• Computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, including proficient skills in Microsoft Excel
• High standards of accuracy and precision
• Proficient oral and written communication skills
• Ability to exercise independent judgment is required
• Ability to effectively organize and plan
• Ability to travel (US and International) an estimated 5% or as needed
• EQI operates globally, at times this will necessitate availability beyond EQI’s standard office hours

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well‑being, growth, and success of our employees. Highlights include:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to support the health needs of employees and their families.
• 401(k) with Company Match: Competitive retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions to help employees build long‑term financial security.
• Flexible, Unlimited Paid Time Off: An unlimited PTO policy designed to promote work–life balance and allow employees the flexibility they need for rest, personal time, and family commitments.
• Positive and Collaborative Work Environment: A culture that values teamwork, integrity, continuous improvement, and open communication.
• Wellness Programs: Access to a range of wellness initiatives that promote physical and mental well‑being including an EAP program and options for maintaining a healthy lifestyle with gym reimbursement
• Global Growth Opportunities: The chance to work for and grow with an expanding international organization, with exposure to global teams, perspectives, and career development pathways.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on any protected characteristic. Applicants needing accommodations during the interview process may request them by phone or email.