NPI Buyer Planner
NPI Buyer Planner Pivotal Systems CareersPosition SummaryThe NPI (New Product Introduction) Buyer Planner is responsible for managing material planning, procurement, and supplier coordination to support prototype, pilot, and production builds for semiconductor gas flow control products. The role combines strategic planning, purchasing, inventory management, and cross-functional coordination to ensure timely product launches and manufacturing continuity.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and maintain production, inventory, and project schedules for NPI and manufacturing activities.Forecast material demand based on engineering builds, customer demand, and sales projections.Create and manage purchase orders for mechanical, electrical, and semiconductor components.Coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers to support prototype and pilot builds.Monitor supplier performance, lead times, shortages, and delivery schedules.Analyze inventory levels to minimize excess stock and prevent shortages.Support sourcing activities, vendor negotiations, and cost reduction initiatives.Maintain accurate ERP/MRP data including BOMs, lead times, and inventory records.Drive continuous improvement in supply chain and planning processes.Track build readiness and communicate risks impacting production schedules.Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Engineering, or related field.3–5+ years of experience in:Buyer/Planner rolesSupply chain operationsSemiconductor or electro-mechanical manufacturingNPI / engineering build supportExperience with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or NetSuite.Strong Excel and data analysis skills.Ability to manage suppliers, shortages, and schedule changes in fast-paced environments.Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.Preferred ExperienceCandidates with experience in the following are especially valuable:Semiconductor equipment or gas delivery systemsMass Flow Controllers (MFCs)Vacuum or chamber hardwarePCBAs, harnesses, sensors, and electromechanical assembliesEngineering change orders (ECOs)Prototype-to-production transitionsContract manufacturing (CM/JDM) coordinationCleanroom manufacturing environmentsTypical Day-to-Day ActivitiesExpedite long-lead semiconductor componentsReview shortages and clear-to-build reportsCoordinate prototype material readiness with engineering teamsWork with suppliers on schedule recovery and delivery commitmentsSupport engineering changes and revised BOM requirementsTrack inventory and production readiness in ERP systemsAttend daily operations/NPI meetingsImportant SkillsMaterial planningProcurement and sourcingInventory managementSupplier managementDemand forecastingERP/MRP systemsExcel / data analysisProblem solving under schedule pressureSemiconductor manufacturing knowledge