Materials Control Analyst

About the Role

The Material Analyst is responsible for coordinating and managing the supply of materials necessary for production. This role requires close collaboration with suppliers, transport carriers, production teams, and inventory management to ensure timely, cost-effective procurement and optimal inventory levels. The Material Analyst will focus on preventing material shortages or excesses across series production, pre-series, and engineering change projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure a safe work environment by complying with all EHS policies and procedures.
• Ensure conformance to IATF 16949 quality management standards is sustained.
• Material Requirements Planning (MRP): Utilize MRP systems to determine material needs based on production schedules, forecasts, parameter controls, and engineering changes.
• Inventory Management: Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels, conducting regular audits and cycle counts to prevent shortages and excess stock.
• Supplier Coordination: Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, place purchase orders/releases, dedicated and/or expedite deliveries, and resolve issues related to quality or delivery schedules. Escalate supplier expectations as needed.
• Transportation & Customs Coordination: Collaborate with logistics providers to ensure timely inbound shipments, manage suppliers’ customs documentation, and ensure compliance with import/export regulations. Following up with suppliers for annual USMCAs, along with each new number creation.
• Production Support: Work closely with production teams to understand material needs and adjust plans proactively to accommodate schedule changes.
• Data Analysis: Analyze material usage, lead times, and inventory trends to identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings.
• Cost Optimization: Negotiate with suppliers to optimize material costs and improve inventory turnover.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, deliveries, ASN accuracy, and inventory levels. Ensure all documentation complies with company policies and industry standards.
• Warehouse & Material Flow: Coordinate with warehouse teams to ensure inbound, storage, and lineside material flow supports production needs efficiently.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in initiatives to enhance planning processes, systems, and overall supply chain efficiency.
• Project Support & Launches: Assist with planning and coordination for new product launches, engineering changes, and other special projects.
• Promote standardization, knowledge sharing, best practices, and continuous improvement across IT and business functions.
• Respond professionally to employee concerns, suggestions, and operational feedback.
• Demonstrate respectful and professional conduct with co-workers, supervisors, and leadership.
• Attend required meetings and training sessions, contribute constructively, and complete assigned training in a timely manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support plant operations and business objectives.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Business Administration, International Business, or related field, or 4+ years of professional experience in Material Planning, including MRP.
• Strong understanding of production inventory control techniques and principles.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) for planning and inventory management.
• Familiarity with transportation logistics, customs procedures, and international shipping regulations.
• Results-oriented with a strong bias for action; proactive in following up and resolving issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven project management and time management abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Project).

Qualifications

• Experience with Tier 1 automotive environment (JIT/JIS) processes.
• Bilingual proficiency (e.g., English and Spanish, French, or other languages).
• Experience in planning within ERP systems, including demand forecasting, order management, and inventory control.
• Knowledge of warehouse operations, inbound/outbound logistics, and material flow design.
• Familiarity with lean inventory practices and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with customs clearance and import/export compliance.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data for decision-making.