Buyer and Planner Job Description
Erosion Control Manufacturing and Grass Seed – Rhino Seed
Job Summary
The Buyer and Planner plays a critical role in ensuring timely procurement of raw materials and supplies while coordinating production schedules to meet project deadlines in the erosion control industry. This position supports on-time delivery and production efficiency by balancing inventory levels, vendor performance, and manufacturing needs. The ideal candidate is analytical and data-driven, using spreadsheets, ERP data, and sound mathematical analysis to make informed purchasing, inventory, and production-planning decisions.
Key Responsibilities
Purchasing:
· Source and purchase erosion control materials such as straw, seed, netting, thread, and packaging supplies.
· Maintain supplier relationships and evaluate vendor performance for quality, cost, and reliability.
· Issue and track purchase orders, monitor delivery timelines, and resolve discrepancies.
· Ensure material compliance with job specifications and regulatory standards.
· Monitor market trends and material availability, proactively managing risks to supply continuity.
Planning:
· Create and update daily and weekly production schedules based on sales orders, forecasts, and inventory.
· Coordinate closely with production leads to ensure efficient use of labor and materials.
· Plan job orders to meet shipping deadlines and customer delivery expectations.
· Analyze demand patterns and lead times to minimize stockouts and overproduction.
· Work within ERP or scheduling systems to update inventory records and track material usage.
General Duties:
· Maintain accurate inventory records; participate in monthly counts and inventory audits.
· Communicate regularly with sales and logistics to align materials and production with customer timelines.
· Support new product rollouts or changes in product configurations by adjusting purchasing and planning accordingly.
· Identify and drive cost-saving opportunities in procurement and production planning through data analysis, cost comparisons, forecasting, and performance tracking.
Qualifications
· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred.
· 4+ years of experience in procurement or planning in a manufacturing environment (erosion control or construction-related industry a plus).
· Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
· Familiarity with erosion control products such as blankets, or hydroseeding materials, and grass seed is a plus.
· Advanced spreadsheet skills, including strong proficiency in Excel for data analysis, formulas, cost comparisons, forecasting, reporting, and inventory planning; working knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., Acumatica, NetSuite, QuickBooks Manufacturing, or similar).
· Excellent organization, communication, and time-management skills.
· Ability to work independently and make decisions in a fast-paced, production-focused environment.
Applicants must be able to pass a background check and a drug screening.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Buyer: 4 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Wayland, MI 49348 (Required)
Work Location: In person
