Purchaser Planner I at Thorlabs in Jessup, MD

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting-edge research and real-world innovation.

Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, you’ll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast-moving culture.

This position is responsible for purchasing, planning, forecasting, and inventory management across multiple product lines for the Laser Systems & Technology Business Unit, as well as providing administrative duties to the Unit. Additional responsibilities will include cost reduction and process improvement projects, as well as vendor evaluations. Works under general supervision.

Purchasing & Planning

• Purchasing (daily execution of planned and unscheduled POs, vendor communication, and date management)
• Working with Supply Chain and Manufacturing teams to support all ongoing productions as needed
• Planning (updating and maintaining forecasts, lead times, and inventory levels)
• Document and Data Control o Initiating and participating in process improvement and cost reduction program o Coordinating vendor returns (RMAs)
• Purchasing office supplies and furniture, office equipment, etc., for the entire staff in accordance with company purchasing policies and budgetary restrictions. o Contributing to daily and weekly purchasing/planning meetings
• Assisting with inventory control tasks, including inventory counting, creating transfer orders and journals, and receiving
• Contributing to creation of standard operation procedures (SOPs) and training documents

Administrative Duties

• Assisting with engineering administrative duties such as releasing items to ERP and uploading released documents.
• Assisting with arranging and coordinating group activities and events, customer or corporate visits.

Experience:

• Minimum 1-3 years of experience in supply chain, preferably in a manufacturing environment

• Experience working with ERP/MRP systems, preferably MS Dynamics 365

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent work experience

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong sense of ownership

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Excel

• Excellent organizational skills

• Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities

• Demonstrated order/data entry accuracy

• Experience working with cross-functional teams

The estimated pay range for this role is $57,000 - $ 60,000 annually

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identify or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.