Apollo Technical has an immediate need for a Buyer/ Planner in the Glenwood IL area

The Buyer / Planner is responsible for managing purchasing and material planning activities to support operational and inventory objectives. This role will initially focus on learning and executing purchasing functions within the Agresso ERP system while actively supporting the organization’s long-term transition toward Oracle ERP processes and best practices.

The ideal candidate brings prior purchasing and planning experience, strong supplier management skills, and a proactive, process-oriented mindset focused on improving data accuracy, inventory control, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Material Planning

• Manage day-to-day purchasing and planning activities within the Agresso ERP system.

• Monitor inventory levels and support optimization initiatives to minimize shortages and excess stock.

• Review and maintain accurate purchasing master data, including Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ), order quantity multiples, supplier lead times, and reorder parameters.

• Oversee i-buy transaction receipts and execute Goods Received Not Invoiced (GRNI) report transactions.

Supplier & Schedule Management

• Communicate regularly with suppliers to confirm order status, track delivery dates, and resolve supply issues.

• Dynamically adjust purchase order schedules (expediting or deferring deliveries) to align with changing inventory demands.

Process Improvement & ERP Transition

• Develop a strong understanding of Oracle ERP concepts and workflows to support the upcoming system transition.

• Continuously evaluate current workflows and recommend improvements that support ERP standardization.

• Reduce reliance on “tribal knowledge” by establishing and documenting accurate, data-driven planning and purchasing processes.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Support

• Partner closely with Operations, Warehouse, Production, and Finance teams to ensure material availability.

• Assist with purchasing documentation, reporting, and system updates as required.

• Support cross-training efforts and provide backup coverage for Buyer and Warehouse Lead responsibilities when necessary.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in purchasing, planning, inventory control, or supply chain management.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or a related field preferred (equivalent experience will be considered).

• Technical Skills: * ERP system experience is required; Oracle ERP experience is strongly preferred.

  • Experience with Agresso or similar ERP systems is a distinct plus.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard business software.

• Core Knowledge: Strong understanding of purchasing, inventory management, and material planning concepts.

• Soft Skills: Proven ability to manage supplier relationships, analyze data to identify process gaps, and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Characteristics

• Change-Ready: Comfortable working in environments transitioning systems or improving operational maturity; ability to think strategically beyond current-state processes.

• Problem Solver: Detail-oriented with a demonstrated ability to challenge outdated practices and improve data integrity.

• Collaborative: Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and cross-functionally.

Working Relationships & Impact

• Collaborators: This position works closely with Operations, Warehouse, Production, Finance, and external suppliers/vendors.

• Position Impact: The Buyer / Planner plays a critical role in maintaining supply continuity, improving inventory management practices, supporting ERP transition readiness, and strengthening operational resilience through cross-functional knowledge sharing.