Materials Planner

Job Summary

Naval Power Systems is seeking a Materials Planner to join our Supply Chain team in Menomonee Falls, WI. This role is responsible for developing and executing material plans that ensure on-time availability of components and subassemblies to support production schedules for critical Navy shipboard power systems. The ideal candidate brings 3–5 years of materials/supply chain planning experience, ideally within a manufacturing, defense, or aerospace environment, and thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven setting. 

What You Will Do

• Develop, maintain, and analyze material requirements plans (MRP) to support production schedules and program milestones.
• Monitor inventory levels, lead times, and supplier performance to prevent shortages and minimize excess/obsolete inventory.
• Coordinate with Procurement, Production Control, Engineering, and Program Management to align material availability with build schedules.
• Identify and resolve material shortages, expediting critical items as needed to avoid production disruptions.
• Analyze demand signals and adjust planning parameters (safety stock, lead times, lot sizes) to optimize inventory turns and service levels.
• Support Master Production Schedule (MPS) reviews and provide input on material constraints and risks.
• Generate and maintain planning reports/metrics (e.g., past-due POs, shortage lists, inventory accuracy) for leadership review.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to streamline planning processes and improve on-time delivery performance.
• Ensure compliance with government contracting requirements, including ITAR and DFARS regulations, as applicable.
• Support Material Review Board (MRB) activities and disposition of nonconforming material as needed.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• 3-5 years of experience in materials planning, supply chain, or production planning, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Infor, or similar).
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel; familiarity with data visualization tools (Power BI) a plus.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines in a deadline-driven production environment.
• APICS/ASCM certification (CPIM or CSCP) preferred.
• Experience in a defense, aerospace, or highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with long-lead procurement and government contracting practices (FAR/DFARS).