Position Summary

We are seeking a Buyer/Planner to join our fast-paced manufacturing team. This role is responsible for executing day-to-day purchasing activities, managing material shortages, and driving continuous improvement in supply chain processes. The ideal candidate will bring intermediate data analysis skills, ERP experience, and a passion for problem-solving in a Lean manufacturing environment. In this role, you will support a diverse range of materials and suppliers in a high mix–low volume business model.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing Execution

• Negotiate, create, and manage blanket and purchase orders per MRP/Kanban needs.
• Ensure timely delivery of materials to meet Kanban levels and production schedules.
• Communicate with suppliers to confirm orders, expedite shipments, and resolve delivery issues.
• Utilize Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP or planning systems to support pull-based replenishment, reduce inventory, and respond to changing demand signals.

Shortage Management

• Monitor material availability and proactively address shortages.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Logistics teams to prioritize and resolve critical part issues.
• Escalate supplier-related delays or constraints to Tier 2 and Tier 3 discussions.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key and problem suppliers to improve delivery performance, responsiveness, and communication.
• Foster a “help them help us” mindset by working collaboratively with suppliers to understand their constraints and support improvement efforts.
• Work closely with the Sourcing team to align on supplier strategies, escalate chronic issues, and support supplier development initiatives.
• Participate in supplier performance reviews and contribute to corrective action planning when needed.

Kanban Management

• Maintain Kanban cards with accurate information on supplier lead time, primary supplier, and average daily usage.
• Adjust Kanban sizes based on demand changes and manage spikes for unexpected requirements.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure Kanban signals are processed promptly to avoid shortages.
• Support implementation of Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP for improved material flow.
• Develop visual management tools to track Kanban performance and drive continuous improvement.

Inventory Accuracy

• Review cycle count reports, perform recounts, reconcile discrepancies, and approve counts.
• Investigate root causes for inaccurate inventory and implement corrective actions.
• Add new parts to the cycle count program as required.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Practices

• Lead or participate in Kaizen events and cross-functional improvement initiatives.
• Identify and eliminate waste in purchasing processes using Lean tools and standard work.
• Develop visual management tools and process documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or Engineering.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a purchasing role within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong Excel skills and basic data analysis capability.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., JDE, Oracle, SAP).
• Excellent communication, follow-up, and organizational skills.
• Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving and multitasking ability.
• APICS/CPIM or similar supply chain certification is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience purchasing materials in a high mix–low volume manufacturing environment.
• Basic understanding of Power BI and data analysis.
• Prior Lean manufacturing experience.

Ralliant Corporation Overview

Ralliant, originally part of Fortive, now stands as a bold, independent public company driving innovation at the forefront of precision technology. With a global footprint and a legacy of excellence, we empower engineers to bring next-generation breakthroughs to life — faster, smarter, and more reliably. Our high-performance instruments, sensors, and subsystems fuel mission-critical advancements across industries, enabling real-world impact where it matters most. At Ralliant we're building the future, together with those driven to push boundaries, solve complex problems, and leave a lasting mark on the world.

About Hengstler

Hengstler is a leading European manufacturer of industrial components for counting and control applications. We supply customers from the most diverse industries, such as automation, mechanical engineering, medical technology and drive technology.For over 170 years we have been known worldwide for our many years of experience and competent service, broad application know-how and high flexibility resulting from a large number of product variants and solutions.

We Are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ralliant Corporation and all Ralliant Companies are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or other characteristics protected by law. Ralliant and all Ralliant Companies are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment application process, please contact us at [email protected].

Pay Range
The salary range for this position (in local currency) is 58,500.00 - 108,500.00