Materials Manager

Located in Wyoming, MI

Salary: $75-90k/YR., Based on Exp.

Materials Manager Job Summary

A growing manufacturing organization in Grand Rapids, MI, is seeking an experienced Materials Manager to oversee purchasing, inventory control, shipping, receiving, and internal material movement. This role is responsible for ensuring materials are available to support production, maintaining inventory accuracy, managing vendor relationships, and coordinating logistics while controlling costs and improving operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills who can develop employees, establish department goals, and drive continuous improvement. Experience in sheet metal manufacturing, supply chain management, and lean manufacturing practices is highly valued.

Materials Manager Responsibilities

• Oversee daily materials department operations, including purchasing, inventory control, shipping, receiving, and internal material movement.
• Manage and develop shipping personnel, buyers, and inventory staff through coaching, training, performance evaluations, and goal setting.
• Coordinate purchasing activities to ensure materials and supplies are available to meet production requirements.
• Develop and maintain vendor relationships, obtain competitive quotes, and evaluate suppliers to support cost control and minimize supply chain risk.
• Monitor inventory quantities and values, conduct regular physical inventory counts, and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Coordinate inbound and outbound shipping activities, including material handling, truck routing, safety, and efficient use of resources.
• Oversee transportation equipment maintenance, safety, efficiency, and operating costs.
• Work with production and other department managers to ensure timely material flow and minimize disruptions.
• Establish department goals, key performance indicators, procedures, and backup plans.
• Monitor department performance and identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, and cost efficiency.
• Support lean manufacturing initiatives, including 5S, workplace organization, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure materials are received accurately and meet quality, quantity, and cost expectations.
• Maintain appropriate staffing levels and ensure the efficient use of department resources.
• Provide regular reporting and documentation to company leadership.
• Ensure employees follow company policies, procedures, safety requirements, and operating standards.
• Stay current on industry trends and best practices to improve department performance and reduce risk.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Schedule & Compensation

Schedule: Full-Time
Position Type: Direct Hire
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Compensation: $75-90k/YR., based on experience

Materials Manager Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required, Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• At least 1 year of experience in inventory management or purchasing required.
• 1-3 years of management experience required.
• Strong understanding of inventory control, purchasing, and supply chain fundamentals.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to coach, mentor, and hold employees accountable.
• Basic understanding of sheet metal manufacturing processes, equipment capabilities, and production requirements.
• Ability to prioritize competing responsibilities and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong teamwork, adaptability, and commitment to quality and results.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 and the ability to learn business software.
• Understanding of manufacturing supply chain challenges and strategies for minimizing cost and production disruptions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a job shop or manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, including 5S.
• Experience with Global Shop Solutions or similar manufacturing ERP systems.
• Knowledge of transportation, shipping, receiving, and material planning processes.

Apply Now!

Quick Apply Here

Send Susan your resume to susan.delauter@srgexpress.com

Give our office a call: 616-608-9678 (direct) | 616-608-9681 (office)

Stop by: 1760 44th Street SW, Suite 10, Wyoming, MI 49519, Inside the Chateau Centre.

About Specialized Recruiting Group, an Express Employment Professionals Company

Specialized Recruiting Group is a professional and executive search firm specializing in engineering, operations, human resources, and other critical roles. Since 1996, we’ve connected talented professionals with companies that align with their values and goals. We are driven to help people succeed and are passionate about making a positive impact.

Apply Now