Material Planner

About the Position

Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly TelefonixPDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) is a global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication, and flight safety systems. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago's Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award.

The Material Planner position is located onsite at the Astronics CSC in Waukegan, Illinois. This role is not remote and requires regular, in-person collaboration with production, supply chain, and quality teams.

Responsibilities

The Material Planner ensures that all materials and components are available to meet production requirements within a machine shop or manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating material flow to support efficient production operations while maintaining balanced inventory levels and preventing shortages or excess. Key responsibilities include procurement, production planning, and effective communication across departments.

Procurement and Supply Chain Management

• Demonstrated knowledge of a wide range of commodities, including customer metal, electronics, and cables.
• Ability to read technical documents such as BOMs and drawings.
• Recommend and implement cost improvement initiatives to increase company margins.
• Develop strong supply chain and vendor relationships; manage suppliers and commodities for ongoing supply and competitive pricing.
• Issue and manage purchase orders to support manufacturing and engineering material requirements.
• Monitor and evaluate market conditions and recommend alternate courses of action when necessary.
• Investigate, develop, and obtain supplier quotations to ensure best total cost/value for commodities.
• Pursue cost savings through collaboration with supplier representatives, Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and others.
• Collect, analyze, and recommend solutions to quality and delivery problems on purchased materials.
• Implement and comply with ethical and legal compliance requirements.

Production Collaboration and Process Support

• Release work orders for outside processing that could include testing, chemical processing, painting, etc.
• Ensure coordination between supply chain, machining, assembly, and quality teams.
• Develop routing steps based on outside processing requirements.
• Track outside processing work orders.
• Update work orders as needed.
• Provide timely updates to production teams on material status and potential risks.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Foster clear communication within Production, Supply Chain, Shipping, and Quality departments.
• Analyze inventory levels and usage to determine reorder points and safety stock requirements.
• Maintain effective relationships at all levels of the organization and with suppliers.
• Evaluate and advise management on improvements to materials, equipment, price changes, and sourcing.

Requirements

Required:

• High School diploma or equivalent required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of material planning or production control experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (Epicor, Dynamics 365, or equivalent).
• Strong analytical skills with Excel and data analysis tools.
• Understanding of machining processes, bill of materials, and routings preferred.

Preferred:

• Intermediate to Advanced Excel Experience with Basic to Intermediate skills in Microsoft Suite products.
• Intermediate to Advanced Experience with a mid-tier ERP system (Epicor, Intuitive, or Dynamics 365 preferred).
• Experience in a contract manufacturing environment.
• Understanding of machining processes, bill of materials, and routings preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $70,000 - $90,000, influenced by several factors including experience, skill set, education, certifications, market conditions, and business needs. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus.
• Health Benefits: Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention, and hospital indemnity.
• Retirement Benefits: 401K, Profit Sharing & Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program.
• Paid Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTOS), Volunteer Time Off Program (VTO), Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave.
• Professional Growth: Tuition Reimbursement Program.

About the Company

Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq: ATRO) serves the world's aerospace, defense, and other mission-critical industries with proven, innovative technology solutions. Astronics works side-by-side with customers, integrating its array of power, connectivity, lighting, structures, interiors, and test technologies to solve complex challenges. For over 50 years, Astronics has delivered creative, customer-focused solutions with exceptional responsiveness. Today, global airframe manufacturers, airlines, militaries, completion centers, and Fortune 500 companies rely on the collaborative spirit and innovation of Astronics. The Company's strategy is to increase its value by developing technologies and capabilities that provide innovative solutions to its targeted markets.

For more information on Astronics and its solutions, visit www.Astronics.com.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.