Job Description

Inventory Buyer / Planner

Department: Procurement

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Inventory Planning Manager

Position Summary

The Inventory Buyer/Planner plays a critical role in managing working capital through effective inventory planning and purchasing execution. This position is responsible for day-to-day purchasing activities, inventory optimization, and the application of inventory best practices to support growing distribution and production operations.

This role partners closely with internal stakeholders to ensure inventory availability aligns with customer demand while minimizing excess and obsolescence. Success in this role requires strong analytical skills, process discipline, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze inventory levels and collaborate with warehouse and accounting teams on inventory administration
• Manage the purchase order lifecycle from creation through receipt
• Maintain and develop strong relationships with vendors and distribution partners
• Partner with Strategic Sourcing and Category Management teams to resolve vendor issues, manage changes, and evaluate new product opportunities
• Coordinate material and product flow across the supply chain by communicating with internal departments
• Purchase and manage inventory across multiple product categories and locations
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels based on established procurement metrics
• Follow up on late purchase orders and proactively communicate status updates to internal stakeholders
• Resolve backorders and support ongoing item and master data maintenance
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Required Skills and Abilities

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Working knowledge of distribution, transportation, and supply chain processes
• Experience expediting priority orders and resolving vendor or logistics challenges
• Proven ability to collaborate and work effectively in a team environment

Education and Experience

Experience Requirements:

• 3–5 years of experience managing inventory using analytical and statistical methods
• Distribution or supply chain experience preferred

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, finance, or a related field preferred
• Alternatively, a related degree combined with 3–5 years of relevant industry experience

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the role with or without reasonable accommodation

About the Company

The organization offers a wide range of in-stock packaging and shipping products with fast delivery. Solutions include confidential drop-ship programs direct to customers, marketing support, and technology solutions designed to support packaging sales and distribution.

Work Schedule & Dress Code

• Business casual dress code
• Flexible scheduling available, provided a minimum of 40 hours per week is worked
• Employees may choose their work schedule (e.g., four 10-hour days), subject to business needs

Compensation

• Salary Range: $80,000 – $95,000 annually
• This salary range applies to this position and will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity
• No additional incentive compensation, bonuses, commissions, or equity offerings have been identified for this role

Benefits & Wellness

Benefit offerings for full-time employment include:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Short-term disability insurance
• Long-term disability insurance

Participation in benefit plans may require employee contributions, which will be detailed during enrollment.

Employee Perks

• Company-sponsored events, including food trucks, employee gatherings, and celebrations

Equal Employment Opportunity & Legal Notices

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to:

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

Job Tags

Full time, Temporary work, Casual work, Work at office, Local area, Flexible hours,

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