Title:  Supervisor I/C-M/C

Location: Utah Operations
Reports to: Plant Manager
Department: Shipping/Receiving/Material Control
Hiring Range: $53,302-$66,560 Annually

Leading Inventory Control and Material Planning Operations

Bourns is seeking an experienced and hands-on Supervisor, Inventory Control & Material Control Planning to oversee inventory control, material planning, and purchasing activities in support of manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for leading inventory control activities and material planning processes to ensure uninterrupted production operations. The Supervisor oversees inventory accuracy, material availability, planning systems, and warehouse coordination while driving continuous improvement initiatives. Working closely with Production, Purchasing, Logistics, Quality, and Finance, this position plays an important role in optimizing inventory levels, reducing costs, and supporting customer delivery requirements.

Managing Inventory Control Operations

• Supervise daily inventory control operations to maintain accurate inventory records.
• Monitor inventory transactions, cycle counts, physical inventories, and reconciliation activities.
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies and root causes.
• Ensure compliance with inventory management policies and procedures.
• Analyze inventory data to identify excess, obsolete, and slow-moving materials.
• Develop and implement corrective actions to improve inventory accuracy.

Leading Material Control and Planning

• Lead material planning activities to support production schedules and customer demand.
• Review material requirements and coordinate procurement activities with Purchasing.
• Monitor inventory levels and establish appropriate safety stock requirements.
• Ensure timely availability of raw materials, components, and supplies.
• Collaborate with Production Planning to balance demand, capacity, and inventory objectives.
• Manage material shortages and develop mitigation plans to minimize production disruptions.

Supervising and Developing the Team

• Supervise, coach, and develop inventory and material planning personnel.
• Establish department goals, performance metrics, and employee development plans.
• Conduct employee performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback.
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Supporting Systems and Process Improvement

• Maintain accurate data within ERP/MRP systems.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) including inventory accuracy, inventory turns, service levels, and material availability.
• Lead continuous improvement projects to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Support implementation and optimization of inventory and planning systems.
• Develop standardized work instructions and operating procedures.

Collaborating Across Departments

• Coordinate with Supply Chain, Purchasing, Production, Quality, and Finance teams.
• Participate in sales and operations planning (S&OP) activities as required.
• Support new product introductions and engineering change initiatives.
• Communicate material risks, shortages, and inventory concerns to management.

Overseeing Purchasing Activities

• Supervise daily purchasing and inventory control activities.
• Coordinate procurement of raw materials, components, tooling, equipment, and services required for manufacturing operations.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure adequate stock is maintained to support production schedules.
• Review and approve purchase requisitions and purchase orders.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to achieve favorable pricing, quality, and delivery performance.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and supplier agreements when appropriate.

Bringing Strong Leadership and Organizational Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong understanding of inventory management and material planning principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies preferred.
• Understanding of inventory control audits, cycle counting, and reconciliation processes.

The Background You'll Need

Experience

• 3–5+ years of experience in inventory control, materials planning, production planning, or supply chain operations.
• 1–3 years of supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment strongly preferred.

Equipment and Computer Skills

• Forklift operation. Must be forklift certified.
• SAP.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to move, lift, and process products using available equipment.

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Additional Information

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee.