NPI Buyer Planner I

Therm-x of California is the leading manufacturer of Advanced Temperature and Control Systems for Hi-Technology industries. We have been in business for over 30 years and have a diverse customer base. We offer competitive pay, medical, dental, vision, 401(K), sick leave and paid time off.

The NPI Buyer/Planner position combines strategic planning expertise with procurement acumen to execute projects efficiently, cost-effectively, and in alignment with organizational goals. This position requires a high level of attention to detail, organizational, project management and multi-tasking skills, including proactive problem solving. The ideal candidate will act as a bridge between Project Managers, engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, and stakeholders to manage timelines, resources, and risk during the product development lifecycle.

 Responsibilities and Duties: 

• New Product Introduction Planning: Develop and implement detailed plans for the introduction of new products, including timelines, budget estimates, and resource allocation.


• Purchasing Management: Oversee the procurement of materials and components required for new product launches, ensuring quality standards and cost-efficiency.


• This role is instrumental in performing material requirements, planning and ensuring on-time delivery to customers.


• Support new program launches by research and evaluate suppliers based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, and reliability.


• Serve as the primary point of contact between suppliers and internal teams, ensuring smooth communication and alignment of objectives.


• Facilitate regular status meetings with stakeholders to provide updates on project progress and address challenges proactively.


• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations to highlight achievements, challenges, and suggestions for process improvements.


• Effective supplier relationship management and ownership of production execution to meet customer requirements.


• The role requires a deep understanding of criticality of meeting customer deadlines 


• Thorough understanding of Bill of material, process flow setup and FAI (First article inspection).


• Follow-up on day-to-day activities like purchasing, production, warehouse, and shipping.


• Identify supply issues, flag with the appropriate owners across Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and drive resolution.


• Responsible for quality issues and invoice discrepancies. Development of programs to improve supplier quality and dependability, along with internal purchasing procedures.


• Follow up on deliveries and expedites as needed. Negotiate and administer contracts with suppliers.


• Maintain accurate cost and lead time information in all systems.


• Replenish inventory in a timely manner using MRP Reports and cross verify with open sales order


• Analyze procurement data and NPI outcomes to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.


• Establish files and controls for all outgoing and incoming correspondence on each assigned order.


• Work with Manufacturing departments to ensure movement of work orders on schedule.


• Making effective decisions when presented with multiple options for how to progress with the project. 


• Other responsibilities related to projects or processes will be defined by the manager.

     Educational Experience Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in Procurement, Planning or Project management role


• Planning and purchasing experience in manufacturing required


• Proficient with MS Office products & experience with ERP Systems


• High level of oral and written communication skills.


• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.


• ERP experience is required, (Epicor, a plus)