Supply Chain and Inventory Manager

NEL Frequency Controls, powered by Abracon LLC Burlington, WI locationNEL Frequency Controls is a leading manufacturer of frequency control products, specializing in ultra-low phase noise crystal oscillators. Founded in 1986, NEL has established itself as a key player in the electronics industry, particularly in the military, aerospace, and high-tech sectors. We are a growing company with a workforce of about 40 employees onsite.Job Type: Full Time, may work up to 50% remotely after 90 day Orientation period onsiteJob SummaryNEL Frequency Controls is seeking a highly analytical and hands-on Supply Chain & Inventory Manager to lead procurement, inventory management, and ERP-driven process optimization across our manufacturing operations. This role expands beyond traditional sourcing to include inventory tracking and movement, lean manufacturing initiatives, cycle and physical inventory management, and automation of inventory transactions throughout the manufacturing process.The ideal candidate will act as a cross-functional leader and system steward ensuring material availability, data accuracy, cost control, and continuous improvement within Odoo and across the shop floor.Key Responsibilities Procurement & Sourcing StrategyDevelop and execute sourcing strategies for frequency control products, including crystal oscillators, resonators, and specialized electronic componentsAlign purchasing strategies with engineering changes, R&D timelines, and production schedulesSupport NPI and product lifecycle transitions from prototype to production Supplier Management & NegotiationIdentify, qualify, and manage suppliers capable of meeting ultra-low phase noise and ultra-high-frequency requirementsLead negotiations on pricing, lead times, Minimum Order Quantity, quality expectations, and contractual termsMonitor supplier performance and drive corrective actions when required Inventory Management & ControlOwn inventory accuracy, valuation, and movement across raw materials, WIP, and finished goodsEstablish and manage cycle count programs and annual physical inventory counts, including reconciliation and root-cause analysisDevelop inventory KPIs (days on hand, turns, aging, scrap, excess & obsolete) and drive corrective actionsBalance service levels with working capital objectives Manufacturing Inventory Tracking & AutomationEnsure accurate inventory transactions throughout the manufacturing process, including:Work orders and routingsMaterial consumption and backflushingScrap reporting and yield trackingRework and non-conformance inventory movementsDrive automation and standardization of inventory flows to reduce manual entry, errors, and delays ERP System Ownership (Odoo)Serve as the primary owner for inventory-related processes within OdooOptimize ERP workflows for purchasing, receiving, inventory transactions, manufacturing, and costingPartner with operations, finance, and IT to improve data integrity, reporting, and system utilizationLead or support ERP enhancements, configuration changes, and user training related to inventory and materials management Lean Manufacturing & Continuous ImprovementApply lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste, improve material flow, and increase operational efficiencySupport pull-based replenishment strategies where appropriate (kanban, min/max, reorder points)Lead root-cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives tied to inventory accuracy, scrap reduction, and throughput Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner closely with engineering, manufacturing, quality, planning, and finance teamsEnsure alignment between physical inventory, system transactions, and financial reportingSupport audits and compliance requirements related to inventory and purchasing Cost Control & ReportingConduct spend analysis, cost trend reviews, and inventory valuation analysisPrepare regular reports for leadership on procurement performance, inventory health, and improvement initiativesSupport budgeting, forecasting, and cost maintenance as it relates to materials and inventory Team Leadership & Process Governance Guide, mentor, and develop purchasing and/or materials staff, with potential progression into departmental leadership roles. Establish clear processes, documentation, and best practices for procurement and inventory managementPromote accountability, data discipline, and continuous improvement across the supply chain functionPage BreakQualificationsRequired Skills & CompetenciesStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsDeep understanding of inventory flows within a manufacturing environmentHigh attention to detail and data accuracyEffective communicator across technical, operational, and financial teamsAbility to manage multiple priorities and improvement initiatives simultaneouslyPreferred QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Business, or related discipline5+ years of experience in procurement, inventory management, or supply chain leadershipExperience in electronics, precision manufacturing, or regulated manufacturing environmentsHands-on experience with ERP systems, including inventory and manufacturing modulesWorking knowledge of lean manufacturing principlesExperience managing cycle counts, physical inventories, and inventory accuracy initiativesFamiliarity with ISO 9001 manufacturing environmentsStrong Excel and reporting skills; comfort translating data into operational insightBenefitsCompetitive salary and comprehensive benefits packageOpportunity to play a key role in scaling and optimizing manufacturing operationsExposure to advanced, high-reliability products in aerospace, defense, and high-tech marketsProfessional development and growth opportunities Come join our team! Excellence through teamwork drives the company culture at NEL and Abracon. We offer meaningful opportunities and resources for self-growth within a growing company. Become part of a great team where you matter! For more information about NEL, visit www.abracon.com/NEL .