Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Tooling Planning and Purchasing Specialist to ensure the timely availability of tooling at optimal cost. This role plays a critical part in supporting production by managing tooling demand, supplier relationships, and ERP/MRP data accuracy, while minimizing downtime related to tooling availability.
Location: In-person, Kentwood MI 49512
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Pay Range: $24.00 – $26.00 per hour (Based on experience)
Key Responsibilities
Procurement Management: Lead negotiations regarding pricing, payment terms, and lead times with local and international tooling suppliers.
Inventory & Warehouse Control: Manage the tooling warehouse by establishing minimum/maximum stock levels (Reorder Points) to ensure operational continuity.
ERP/MRP Administration: Issue purchase orders (POs) and internal production orders, ensuring all material movements are accurately recorded in the system.
Organization & Traceability: Maintain the physical organization of the warehouse and ensure data accuracy, including labeling, barcoding, and blueprint version control.
Make or Buy Analysis: Evaluate whether it is more cost-effective to manufacture tooling in-house or outsource it, based on capacity, cost, and urgency.
Engineering Liaison: Collaborate with the Engineering team to validate that incoming tools strictly meet the current blueprint revisions.
Operational Support: Support tool room logistics to guarantee that the production team receives tools ready for immediate use.
Environmental & Safety Responsibilities
Promote efficient use of tooling and materials.
Follow all safety and risk prevention guidelines.
Properly use and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE).
Ensure team compliance with safety requirements and PPE usage.
Identify and recommend training opportunities for tooling personnel.
Stop any activity that poses a risk to employees or equipment.
Qualifications & Experience
Education: Technical background in Engineering, Business Administration, or Supply Chain.
Purchasing Experience: 3 to 5 years of experience in industrial procurement, preferably within the metalworking or fastener industry.
Inventory Management: Proven experience in inventory control, cycle counts, and technical warehouse organization.
Blueprint Reading: Strong ability to read and interpret technical drawings (essential for verifying procurement specifications).
Software Proficiency: Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar) and intermediate/advanced Excel skills for inventory reporting.
Core Competencies
Strong negotiation and supplier development skills.
High level of organization and attention to detail.
Ability to work under pressure and manage production priorities.
Benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Referral program