Job Description
The Planner/Buyer is responsible for coordinating production planning and procurement activities to support the efficient manufacturing of pharmaceutical products. This role ensures raw materials, components, and services are available to meet production schedules while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, small-company environment and can balance strategic planning with hands-on execution.
Key Responsibilities:
Production Planning
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Develop and maintain production schedules based on customer demand, forecasts, and capacity constraints
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Coordinate closely with manufacturing, quality, and warehouse teams to ensure schedule adherence
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Monitor production progress and adjust plans as needed to address delays or changes in demand
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Support new product introductions and tech transfers with planning and material readiness
Procurement / Buying
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Source and procure raw materials, packaging components, and services required for GMP manufacturing
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Issue and manage purchase orders; track order status to ensure on-time delivery
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Maintain appropriate inventory levels while minimizing excess and obsolete stock
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Identify and qualify suppliers in collaboration with Quality and Regulatory teams
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Negotiate pricing, lead times, and supply agreements where applicable
Inventory & Materials Management
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Monitor inventory levels and perform material requirements planning (MRP)
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Ensure accurate inventory records in ERP systems
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Collaborate with warehouse on receiving, storage, and material movement
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Manage safety stock levels and reorder points
Cross-Functional Coordination
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Partner with Quality Assurance to ensure materials meet GMP and regulatory standards
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Work with Finance on cost control, budgeting, and invoice reconciliation
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Communicate with customers (as needed) regarding timelines and material availability
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Support audits by providing documentation and traceability of materials
Continuous Improvement
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Identify opportunities to improve planning accuracy, supplier performance, and inventory turns
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Participate in process improvement initiatives and system enhancements
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Develop and track KPIs related to supply chain performance
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Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Education & Experience
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Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Life Sciences, or related field (or equivalent experience)
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3+ years of experience in planning, procurement, or supply chain within pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated manufacturing environment
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Experience in a contract manufacturing (CMO/CDMO) environment preferred
Skills & Knowledge
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Strong understanding of GMP requirements and regulated environments
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Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or similar)
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Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking skills
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Ability to manage multiple priorities in a small, dynamic company setting
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Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
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Analytical mindset with attention to detail
Preferred Qualifications:
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APICS/ASCM certification (e.g., CPIM or CSCP)
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Experience with demand planning and forecasting
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Familiarity with supplier qualification and audit processes
Work Environment:
- Fast-paced, growth-oriented small company environment
- Requires frequent interaction with manufacturing and warehouse areas