Material Planner

Position OverviewThe Material Planner is accountable for ensuring timely availability of components required for service kits and for coordinating with suppliers, internal teams, and customers to maintain uninterrupted material flow. This role emphasizes problem‑solving, supplier collaboration, data accuracy, and proactive management of risks affecting kit delivery schedules.

Core Skills & CompetenciesSupply Chain Planning & Execution

Ability to plan, schedule, and prioritize material requirements to meet customer demand and kit shipment deadlines.Skill in analyzing lead times, forecasting needs, and managing constraints to prevent shortages.

Supplier Management & Negotiation

Proficient in building and maintaining effective supplier relationships.Capability to negotiate lead times, resolve delivery challenges, and escalate risks tactfully.Ability to collaboratively develop shipment and performance improvement solutions.

Procurement Operations

Skilled at creating, issuing, and managing purchase orders and releases.Ability to resolve purchasing, quality, engineering, and specification discrepancies with suppliers and internal partners.

Communication & Customer Coordination

Strong written and verbal communication to keep customers informed, especially around required date changes or potential delays.Ability to provide clear and accurate data supporting customer discussions, performance disputes, or corrective actions.

Problem‑Solving & Issue Resolution

Ability to analyze bottlenecks and implement corrective actions for expedited materials, hotlines, or urgent fulfillment needs.Skill in using data to identify root causes and propose solutions.

Data Accuracy & Systems Proficiency

Proficiency with material management systems (e.g., SAP) and Microsoft Office tools.Ability to maintain accurate system records, desk files, and kit‑related documentation.

Collaboration & Cross‑Functional Coordination

Strong teamwork capabilities to partner with purchasing, engineering, quality, operations, and logistics teams.Ability to support special projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and procure required components for service kits.Issue and manage purchase orders/releases for suppliers.Expedite materials and drive on‑time delivery performance.Negotiate lead times and collaborate with suppliers to resolve issues occurring within or outside contractual timelines.Communicate shipment changes and date adjustments to customers.Support the investigation and documentation of supplier performance concerns.Resolve cross‑functional issues involving engineering, quality, logistics, or purchasing.Provide work‑order details to ensure timely kit packaging and shipment.Oversee urgent orders (Hotlines/IVOs/Preventative) to ensure priority handling.Maintain accurate records and system data for all kit‑related planning.Assist with special projects, customer requests, and continuous improvement efforts.Perform additional duties as required.

QualificationsRequired

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain/Operations Management, or related field - or equivalent experience.3+ years of experience in materials planning, purchasing, inventory control, or supply chain operations.Proficiency with SAP or similar ERP/material planning systems.Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred

Experience managing supplier and customer relationships in a fast‑paced production or service environment.Ability to apply key purchasing principles and supply chain best practices.Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement, integrity, and collaborative teamwork.

#HLGSWRTHWith more than 30 years of expertise, Hollingsworth is a leading provider of third-party logistics services. We pride ourselves on our commitment to the advancement of our workforce and develop and invest in our employees. Benefits include:

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurancePaid time off401K retirement with company matchEmployee discountsTraining and development