Material Buyer/Planner Date: Mar 24, 2025 Location: Chattanooga, TN, US, 37405 Req ID: 32748 Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position Komatsu is an indispensable partner to the construction, mining, forestry, forklift, and industrial machinery markets, maximizing value for customers through innovative solutions. With a diverse line of products supported by our advanced IoT technologies, regional distribution channels, and a global service network, we tap into the power of data and technology to enhance safety and productivity while optimizing performance. Komatsu supports a myriad of markets, including housing, infrastructure, water, pipeline, minerals, automobile, aerospace, electronics and medical, through its many brands and subsidiaries, including TimberPro, Joy, P&H, Montabert, Modular Mining Systems, Hensley Industries, NTC, and Gigaphoton. Job Overview To develop and maintain suppliers for all production parts in accordance to quality, cost and delivery requirements while seeking continuous improvement. Responsible for the overall management of material requirements and control necessary for support of the manufacturing process. Scope + Can assists in training of staff in company systems and procedures. + Maintains supplier information records, lead-times, source list, material master data, purchase orders and MRP related settings. + Planning and procuring materials to support OEM and Aftermarket sales. Ensure orders are received to quality specifications from suppliers on the required due dates through expediting and overall order management to prevent productions stoppages and workforce downtime. + Maintain and control material costs. Provide support to NPD and cost reduction teams. + Resolve purchase order and invoice discrepancies including pricing, quantity, and shipping/receiving issues. + Adherence to existing supplier contracts as directed by senior personnel. + Knowledge of current business strategies and market inventory initiatives. + Keeping up to date with the latest purchasing techniques and industry advances. + Review and resolve supplier performance issues. + Coordinates with commodity managers for alternate or dual sources. Key Job Responsibilities + Works with high integrity and complies with corporate guidelines (SLQDC). + Resolve purchase order and invoice discrepancies including pricing, quantity, and shipping/receiving issues. + Initiates purchase orders and amendments for parts, services, and/or special tools; arranges for submission and inspection of sample products as required; close coordination with plant engineering to assure timely execution of product and services sourcing activities. + Work closely with other departments as required to advance enterprise-wide sourcing programs as appropriate. + Works closely with Strategic Planning and Product Management to support Suppliers with forecast projections. + Maintains awareness of market prices and trends, engineering developments and manufacturing method improvements applicable to assigned responsibilities and advises upper management. + Interviews and confers with current and prospective suppliers to determine current and future supply capabilities, transportation logistics, inventory control and management. + Coordinates the planning of current schedules and inventory control parameters for the assigned products and services consistent with Komatsu's requirements or as arranged with requisitioners. + Coordinates, as appropriate, quality matters and engineering changes/developments between company activities and suppliers. + Reviews production schedule and manufacturing orders to ensure that components and services are available in a timely manner. + Coordinates with appropriate manufacturing personnel the solution to problems related to the Production Schedule, such as material shortage status, rejection, scrap, re-work, etc. + Analyzes material shortages, review order progress, and adjust plans and schedules, as necessary. + Perform other related duties as assigned. Qualifications/Requirements + BS degree in Supply Chain, Operations or Business. An Associate degree in combination or relevant experience and training will be considered. + Must possess analytical/critical thinking skills. + Self-driven, results oriented. + Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization. + Proficient in MS Office, particularly Excel, Word. Experience with inventory system software. + Strong relational skills, ability to work well with others Experience + 2+ years of relevant working experience. + Experience working in an ERP environment (SAP a plus). + MS Office aptitude. Technical Skills + Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information. Collects and researches data. Uses intuition and experience to complement data. + Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner. Gathers and analyzes information skillfully. Develops alternative solutions. Works well in group problem solving situations. Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics. + Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications preferred. + Knowledge of Komatsu products is desired but not necessary. Additional Information Personal Attributes: Professional and positive attitude. Strong relational skills, ability to work with all departments, fosters teamwork and a positive work environment. Ability to work independently and be self-motivated. Must be able to prioritize assignments. Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) with a strong focus on customer service. Ability to function well in a high-paced and, at times, stressful environment Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Nearest Major Market:Chattanooga