• Buyer Planner

    Aston Carter (West Haven, CT)


    Position Title:Buyer/Planner

    Reports To:Emily Ott, Supply Planning Manager

     

    Schedule:Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Fully Onsite)

     

    ERP System:JDE

     

    Team Size:3

     

    Contract Duration:Covering a leave of absence; initial term of 1 month with potential for extension

     

    Start Date:ASAP

     

    Compensation:Flexible, based on experience

    Position Overview

    We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Buyer/Planner to support our manufacturing operations. This role is essential in managing inventory procurement and executing purchases through Material Requirements Planning (MRP) processes. The Buyer/Planner will work cross-functionally to maintain optimal inventory levels, minimize supply chain risks, and ensure alignment with production schedules. Additionally, this role will support strategic supplier relationships and contribute to sourcing initiatives and cost-saving projects.

    Key Responsibilities

    + Utilize MRP systems to analyze demand, generate purchase orders, and schedule deliveries in line with production needs.

    + Maintain supplier data within the ERP system, including setup, item cross-references, lead times, payment terms, and minimum order quantities.

    + Serve as the site’s primary contact for purchasing inquiries, particularly for non-inventory items and services via the Esker system.

    + Monitor inventory levels and usage trends to adjust procurement strategies, avoiding shortages and overstock.

    + Evaluate supplier performance, manage vendor relationships, and identify opportunities for cost reduction and process optimization.

    + Approve requisitions, issue purchase orders, confirm acknowledgements, and ensure timely delivery. Regularly review open orders and communicate any delays or issues.

    + Collaborate with production, logistics, quality assurance, sourcing, and finance teams to align procurement activities with organizational goals.

    + Communicate material availability, delivery status, and potential disruptions to relevant stakeholders.

    + Participate in planning meetings and contribute insights to improve operational efficiency.

    + Analyze procurement KPIs, identify areas for improvement, and implement best practices.

    + Support strategic sourcing initiatives led by the Global Sourcing team and site management.

    + Lead and coordinate cost-saving projects with cross-functional teams.

    Qualifications

    + Bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related STEM field) or equivalent professional experience.

    + 1–5 years of experience in procurement, planning, or supply chain management within a manufacturing environment.

    + Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.

    + Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

    + High attention to detail and commitment to process compliance.

    + Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

    + Familiarity with lean principles, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies is a plus.

    + Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

    + Experience with MRP systems and ERP platforms; JDE experience is a plus.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $36.00 - $40.00/hr.

     

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

     

    • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in West Haven,CT.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Aug 8, 2025.

    About Aston Carter:

    Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.