Purchasing and inventory specialist

Kennon is an equal opportunity employer and will seriously consider every qualified applicant interested in joining our growing team. Please apply through our webpage: https://kennonproducts.com/careers/. Questions or accessibility issues may be directed to: recruiting@kennoncovers.com.

JOB DESCRIPTION:
- Prepare, execute and manage purchase orders for raw materials and consumables based on production schedule and inventory needs.
- Coordinate responsible and proactive “Just In Time” purchasing to maintain low levels of inventory while ensuring production has all necessary materials and components when needed.
- Receive, inspect and properly document incoming materials; ensure quality, accuracy, and alignment with purchase orders.
- Maintain accurate and organized inventory records using ERP/inventory management systems; Perform audits and cycle counts.
- Monitor usage patterns and historical data to establish accurate reorder points and forecast material needs.
- Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Operations departments to forecast material requirements and resolve material constraints.
- Maintain supplier records and support performance evaluations related to cost, quality, and delivery; Coordinate with suppliers on order status and logistics.
- Support Standard Operating Procedures through compliance with ISO 9001 standards in both purchasing and inventory practices.
- Identify and continuously improve internal methods and processes for inventory control (kanban) and purchasing operations.
- Assist with receiving duties, including inspecting and properly documenting all incoming materials.
- Evaluate the supply chain status; Identify risks and opportunities; Develop a redundant and robust network of suppliers and partners.
- Understand Kennon technical requirements, vet supply network to meet these requirements, and ensure appropriate purchasing power (MOQ, LT, PO T&Cs, Blanket Orders, etc.).
- Maintain Kennon Supplier Records (Supplier Status, Risk Record, Supplier Evaluation Record); Perform annual supplier scoring.
- Work directly with Kennon’s Director of Business Operations to assess current supplier performance, and evaluate potential suppliers based on production needs. Maintain rapport and good working relationships with suppliers.
- Prepare and report to appropriate leadership positions during scheduled production meetings any delinquent materials and supplies which may affect on-time delivery and/or production capacity.
- Issue Supplier Corrective Action Reports (SCARs) as necessary; Verify proper problem resolution and prevention.
- Understand purchasing and inventory impacts on cash flow; Optimize and balance performance for efficiency and responsibility in inventory levels and turns and production revenues.
- Exercise a service approach both internally and externally; Coordinate, communicate and collaborate.
- Exemplify Kennon’s Core Values; Integrity, Daring, Caring, Responsiveness.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent (technical certification or vocational training in supply chain management or a related field is preferred). 
- Experience: Minimum 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing related activities preferred.

SKILLS:
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with inventory practices. 
- Basic knowledge of software such as, but not limited to, Microsoft Excel and Word. o
- Ability to read and understand supplier and product requirements.
- Ability to work with a team and to be a good team member.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand or walk for extended periods, and perform tasks in various environmental conditions (e.g. hot, cold, noisy).

BENEFITS:
- Competitive wage based on experience
- Paid time off and holidays 
- Benefit package
- Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP)

ABOUT KENNON: We are currently in an exciting time of growth and change, aligning our organizational structure to our strategic plans, creating great opportunities both internally and externally. Kennon Products has a forty-year history of proudly designing and manufacturing quality products that protect high value assets. Founded in 1984 to provide general aviation products, Kennon has grown into a multi-faceted company with international sales. We lead with cutting edge research and development, utilization of advanced materials and composites, and delivery of diverse product lines that include preservation of private, commercial, and military aircraft integrity; safety in behavioral health; and life-protection for our service men and women. Our success has come through consistently providing innovation, ensuring superior design, and maintaining our commitment to quality. Together, we deliver innovative solutions to protect what matters most.