Job Description

McFarlane is a rapidly growing 50+ years old aviation firm that focuses on the design and manufacture of high-quality aircraft parts within the general aviation and commercial marketplace. We are an industry leading developer, manufacturer, and distributor of FAA-PMA products and believe in providing better parts with superior “old-school” customer service. When you join the McFarlane team, you’ll join a dedicated group of colleagues passionate about aviation, community, and the McFarlane way. 

Overview

The Buyer/Planner is responsible for purchasing materials, components, and equipment necessary for the manufacturing process, as well as planning production schedules to ensure on-time delivery of products. This role requires close collaboration with suppliers, internal teams, and stakeholders to optimize inventory levels, manage supplier relationships, and ensure cost efficiency while maintaining quality and compliance with aviation industry standards.

What You’ll Do

• Procurement & Sourcing: Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to procure raw materials, components, and services that meet quality and cost requirements.
• Inventory Management: Monitor and manage inventory levels to support production schedules while minimizing excess and obsolete stock.
• Production Planning: Develop and maintain production schedules, ensuring alignment with customer demand, engineering changes, and material availability.
• Supplier Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, managing performance, lead times, and contract terms.
• Cost Control: Identify cost-saving opportunities and drive initiatives to reduce procurement expenses without compromising quality.
• Compliance & Quality: Ensure all purchases and planning activities comply with industry regulations, quality standards (e.g., AS9100, FAA regulations), and company policies.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Work closely with engineering, operations, and quality assurance teams to resolve supply chain issues and support new product introductions.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify potential supply chain risks and implement contingency plans to mitigate disruptions.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in initiatives to enhance procurement and planning processes, leveraging data-driven decision-making and lean manufacturing principles.

Skills & Experience You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Engineering, or a related field or equivalent year of working experience. 
• 3+ years of experience in purchasing, planning, or supply chain management within an aviation, aerospace, or manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of procurement and production planning processes.
• Familiarity with aviation industry standards and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• APICS, CPIM, or CPSM certification is a plus.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Office and manufacturing floor environment.
• Occasional travel to suppliers or industry events may be required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs occasionally.

Why McFarlane?

At McFarlane Aviation, you’re a part of a team that takes pride in Making It Better. Whether you're assembling parts or sharing ideas, you play a key role in keeping the skies safe. We believe in old-school customer service, doing the right thing, and building better parts through real teamwork and integrity.

We offer:

• A collaborative, hands-on culture where ideas take flight and your voice matters.
• A supportive crew of aviation pros who are passionate about what they do.
• Competitive pay and benefits, growth opportunities, and a role that makes a difference.

McFarlane Aviation is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We believe diverse perspectives make us stronger, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds to join our journey.

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