Buyer / Planner

Buyer/Planner  

Location: Duluth, GA

Department: Operations

Reports to: Materials Manager

Direct Reports: None

Type: Full-Time

Status: Exempt

Schedule: M-Thu onsite, F - Remote

Salary: $55,000 $65,000 + Bonus

The Role

We're seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Buyer/Planner to support IPA's manufacturing operations by executing tactical purchasing activities, managing supplier communications, and helping maintain a healthy, efficient supply chain.

This is a great opportunity for someone early in their supply chain career to build foundational skills across procurement, inventory management, and production planning — with visibility across the business and room to grow.

What You’ll Do

·         Execute day-to-day purchasing operations to meet manufacturing and new product introduction (NPI) requirements.

·         Procure commodities based on material requirements planning (MRP), forecasts, and transaction history.

·         Develop and maintain relationships with vendor contacts through regular communication on requirements and follow-            up.

·         Monitor supplier performance, help resolve issues, and provide input for periodic supplier evaluations.

·         Coordinate with key suppliers to review material issues, forecast information, and support supply chain continuity.

·         Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure timely availability of materials and address production-related c                     changes.

·         Maintain inventory control reporting, analyze inventory levels, and support optimization of inventory management                   practices.

·         Manage excess and obsolete inventory, contributing to cost reduction initiatives.

·         Support the transition of new products from R&D into stable operations.

·         Generate regular reports on purchasing and supply chain performance metrics.

·         Identify opportunities for process improvements and contribute to departmental goals.

What You Bring

·         Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred).

·         Some experience in procurement, planning, or supply chain roles — manufacturing environment experience is a plus.

·         Basic understanding of procurement strategies, supplier management, and production planning principles.

·         Exposure to contract negotiation or supplier relationship management is a plus.

·         Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with ERP/MRP systems is a bonus.

·         Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.

You’ll Excel If You:

·         Are eager to learn and grow in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

·         Communicate c...