Materials Manager role overseeing procurement, inventory control, material planning/scheduling, and warehouse flow for a manufacturing facility at Lucas Milhaupt, a material joining solutions company. You’ll lead a small team (three direct reports) and partner cross-functionally to improve efficiency and reduce supply chain costs. Standout perk: company-wide holiday shutdown from December 24th to January 1st, plus bonus plans and 401(k) match.
- Dec 24–Jan 1 shutdown
- Quarterly and annual bonus plans
- 401(k) with company matching
At Lucas Milhaupt, we develop next-generation material joining solutions that are propelling industries forward. Join with the Best and become part of a team that rewards continuous improvement, celebrates diversity, and propels every team member toward personal and professional growth.
We are passionate about creating a culture where every voice is heard, every idea considered, and every success celebrated. We believe in the power of career development and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities.
As we continue to grow and expand as a company, we are actively seeking diverse and talented individuals who share our passion for material joining and want to be part of a journey that encourages personal and professional growth.
At Lucas, our focus is on our people - the key to our success. Our goal is to offer employees an unparalleled experience, with opportunities to grow and improve the quality of their lives and the lives of their families.
Is This For You?
We are seeking a highly organized and experienced Materials Manager to oversee the procurement, inventory management, planning, and scheduling of materials within our manufacturing facility. This role is critical in ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of raw materials while maintaining optimal inventory levels to meet production demands. The Materials Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline material flow, improve efficiency, and reduce costs within the supply chain. This position will have three direct reports.
How Would You Accomplish This?
• Promote Safety as the number one priority of all employees.
- Inventory Management
- Develop and implement inventory control strategies to ensure accurate stock levels.
- Monitor inventory turnover, reduce excess stock, and minimize material shortages.
- Utilize ERP/MRP systems to track and manage material usage and inventory accuracy.
- Material Planning and Scheduling
- Develop material planning and scheduling strategies to align with production goals.
- Work closely with production and procurement teams to forecast material requirements.
- Ensure on-time material availability to support production schedules and minimize downtime.
- Balance supply and demand to optimize material flow and reduce carrying costs.
- Warehouse Management
- Indirectly oversee daily warehouse activities, including receiving, inventory transfers, storage, picking, staging, and shipping.
- Implement and maintain best practices in warehouse management, including safety protocols, compliance, movements, labeling, and bin location systems.
- Ensure accuracy of inventory and proper flow of materials into production.
- Procurement and Supplier Management
- Source, evaluate, and manage relationships with suppliers to secure quality materials at competitive prices.
- Support the negotiation contracts, pricing, and lead times to optimize procurement efficiency.
- Ensure supplier performance meets quality, cost, and delivery expectations.
- Process Improvement and Cost Reduction
- Identify opportunities to enhance material flow, reduce waste, and optimize supply chain processes.
- Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to improve efficiency.
- Drive initiatives to reduce material costs while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Compliance and Reporting
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, quality standards, and company policies.
- Generate reports and analyze data on inventory levels, material usage, and supplier performance.
- Provide recommendations based on data insights to enhance materials management strategies.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a mixed environment of the office and manufacturing floor and may require infrequent travel (<10%) to suppliers or the Warwick RI facility.
What Are We Looking For?
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related.
- 5+ years of experience in materials management, supply chain, inventory planning, or procurement within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems, warehouse management, and inventory management software (e.g. Oracle, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics)
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Proven ability to lead and improve teams and collaborate across departments.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies is a plus.
What We Offer
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
• Paid holidays in additional to paid time off
• December 24th - January 1st organizational holiday shut down
• Short Term Disability at no cost to the employee
• 401 (k) plan with company matching
• Quarterly and annual bonus plans
• A supportive work environment built on teamwork, respect, integrity, and commitment
• Diversity and Inclusion Employee Resource Group
EEO Statement:
We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We also provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state or local law. If you require assistance or reasonable accommodation in completing this application or during any aspect of the application process, please contact Human Resources at 414.769.6000.