Materials Planner
By: Yingqian Chen & Tony Tran
Description: Material planners can be found in
manufacturing companies that need a steady supply of raw materials or inputs in place in order to continue the manufacturing process. Materials
planners also work in conjunction with buyers to control and plan levels of
inventory on hand in order to fulfill orders and operate at effective capacity.
Responsibilities: Materials planners must work
with others in the firms to fulfill their duties and often contribute to the
strategy of a firm. Often it is the duty of a material planner to keep the
manufacturing process running smoothly. In order to do this, they often utilize
information from a forecast and to plan for the proper levels of inventory
needed to fulfill demand.
Skill Set: At a minimum a bachelor’s degree from
a business program is required. Degrees in specialized fields such as supply
chain management and finance are preferred.
On top of the educational requirements, successful
material planners are tenacious in term of negotiating deals and tactfully
attaining product in the most cost efficient manner. Sometimes additional
certifications such as the Certification in production and Inventory Management
(CPIM) are required. This certification may be obtained with further job
training and examinations.
Work Environment: Material planners may be found in the heart of
manufacturing plants where actual production occurs or in the office working
with different departments in order to compile extensive information to plan
and control levels of inventory. Many times material planners will work in the
purchase department within the company.
Salary and Job Opportunities:
In March 2012 it was reported that the median
salary for a materials planner can range from $49,392 to $67,341. Of course,
pay increases in accordance with experience. There are many opportunities to
move up after being an entry-level materials planner. Specifically, one may
obtain a position as a materials manager, which requires more management duties
as well as a solid foundation of materials planning.
Moving forward: Materials planners are promoted
from entry level planners to senior level planners and then ultimately to
materials managers. The span of time between promotions can be between 2-3
years been entry level and senior level and upwards of 7 years until eventually
becoming materials manager. This is because extensive knowledge and experience
are often preferred, especially by larger companies or those with greater
complexity or breadth of products.
Why Materials Planner?: Once an individual has
established themselves as a material planner, many opportunities for
advancement throughout the supply chain are available. One may transfer to a
role within purchasing, forecasting, and other teams directly tied to the
production process of a firm.
Additional links and resources:
· Opportunities of employment with one of the world’s leading supply
chains: http://www.simplyhired.com/a/jobs/list/q-material+planning+apple/l-mountain+view,+ca
References in blog:
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