Materials Planner

Position Overview:

The Procurement Specialist plays a crucial role in the planning, sourcing, and scheduling of materials and services essential for the production of goods within designated lines or sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Initiates and modifies purchase orders for components, services, and specialized tools; coordinates the submission and evaluation of sample products as necessary; collaborates closely with engineering teams to ensure prompt sourcing of products and services.
• Evaluates and negotiates supplier quotations, focusing on price, quality, and delivery timelines, while recommending suppliers based on competitiveness for assigned tasks.
• Engages with strategic sourcing initiatives to enhance company-wide procurement programs as appropriate.
• Researches market trends, pricing, and advancements in engineering and manufacturing methods relevant to assigned duties; provides insights to management in conjunction with senior procurement staff.
• Conducts interviews and discussions with current and potential suppliers to assess their capabilities, logistics, and inventory management; negotiates pricing and delivery conditions under the guidance of senior procurement personnel.
• Oversees the planning of schedules and inventory management parameters for assigned products and services in alignment with operational requirements.
• Implements strategies for small business and disadvantaged business sourcing programs in collaboration with senior procurement staff.
• Visits supplier facilities to evaluate them as potential sources and assists in resolving production, design, quality, or delivery challenges.
• Thrives in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.

About Kadant Solutions Division:

Kadant Solutions, located in Auburn, Massachusetts, specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of a diverse array of doctoring, cleaning, filtration, and forming systems, along with related consumables utilized in various process industries globally, including construction materials, food processing, and pulp and paper.

Why Join Kadant?

• Recognized as one of America's Most Responsible Companies.
• Awarded as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity.
• 100% of Kadant's energy is sourced from renewable resources.
• Contributes to the recycling efforts of the pulp and paper industry, which leads in recycling rates.
• Engages in multiple process industries, including lithium-ion battery production and textiles.
• Focuses on customer-centric innovation to enhance sustainable industrial processing.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Kadant Solutions is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package effective upon hire, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance with competitive premiums.
• Ten paid holidays.
• 401k plan with company match.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Disability and Aflac insurance options.
• Legal assistance and employee assistance programs.
• Flexible spending and educational assistance.
• Employee stock purchase plan.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Associate's Degree or 5-6 years of experience in a procurement role.
• Experience in an engineer-to-order environment.
• Proficient in global sourcing and procurement practices.
• Strong multitasking abilities.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Detail-oriented with a strong sense of urgency.

Knowledge:

• In-depth knowledge of Epicore ERP systems, including Buyer Workbench functionality.
• Proven organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers on various terms.
• Capability to collaborate in a team setting while managing internal pressures.
• Proficient in reading blueprints and product specifications.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Primarily office-based, with occasional visits to the production floor.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Capacity to handle mental challenges, especially during peak demand periods.