Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly Telefonix PDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) serves as the experienced, global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication and flight safety systems. Additionally, Astronics CSC offers proven IFEC hardware systems, flexible design platforms, high customer satisfaction, and long-term relationships with industry leaders to help make the connected aircraft a reality. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award.
The Material Planner position is located onsite at the Astronics CSC in Waukegan, Illinois. This role is not remote and requires regular, in-person collaboration with production, supply chain, and quality teams.
Summary
The Material Planner ensures that all materials and components are available to meet production requirements within a machine shop or manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating material flow to support efficient production operations while maintaining balanced inventory levels and preventing shortages or excess. The role contributes to an efficient, cost-effective supply chain and requires strong organizational, analytical, and technical skills to support cost control, inventory optimization, and on-time delivery. Key responsibilities include procurement, production planning, and effective communication across departments.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Procurement and Supply Chain Management
- Demonstrated knowledge of a wide range of commodities, including customer metal, electronics, and cables.
- Ability to read technical documents such as BOMs and drawings.
- Recommend and implement cost improvement initiatives to increase company margins.
- Develop strong supply chain and vendor relationships; manage suppliers and commodities for ongoing supply and competitive pricing.
- Issue and manage purchase orders to support manufacturing and engineering material requirements.
- Monitor and evaluate market conditions and recommend alternate courses of action when necessary.
- Investigate, develop, and obtain supplier quotations to ensure best total cost/value for commodities.
- Pursue cost savings through collaboration with supplier representatives, Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and others.
- Collect, analyze, and recommend solutions to quality and delivery problems on purchased materials.
- Implement and comply with ethical and legal compliance requirements.
Production Collaboration and Process Support
- Release work orders for outside processing that could include testing, chemical processing, painting, etc.
- Ensure coordination between supply chain, machining, assembly, and quality teams.
- Develop routing steps based on outside processing requirements.
- Track outside processing work orders
- Update work orders as needed
- Provide timely updates to production teams on material status and potential risks.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Foster clear communication within Production, Supply Chain, Shipping, and Quality departments.
- Analyze inventory levels and usage to determine reorder points and safety stock requirements.
- Maintain effective relationships at all levels of the organization and with suppliers.
- Evaluate and advise management on improvements to materials, equipment, price changes, and sourcing.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Required:
- High School diploma or equivalent required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred.
- Minimum 3 years of material planning or production control experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (Epicor, Dynamics 365, or equivalent).
- Strong analytical skills with Excel and data analysis tools.
- Understanding of machining processes, bill of materials, and routings preferred.
Preferred:
- Intermediate to Advanced Excel Experience with Basic to Intermediate skills in Microsoft Suite products.
- Intermediate to Advanced Experience with a mid-tier ERP system (Epicor, Intuitive, or Dynamics 365 preferred).
- Experience in a contract manufacturing environment
- Understanding of machining processes, bill of materials, and routings preferred.
Competencies:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions.
- Technical Skills - Reads and interprets BOMs and engineering drawings. Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others; Builds knowledge base from research and experience.
- Planning/Organizing - Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. Uses time efficiently; Sets goals and objectives; Strives to increase productivity.
- Collaboration: Communicates effectively across departments and with suppliers.
- Dependability & Accuracy: Ensures schedules and data are current and reliable.
- Continuous Improvement: Identifies opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvement.
An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check, and applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug test and background check will not be considered for employment.
The salary range specified is applicable to positions within the State of Illinois and reflects various factors considered in compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, individual skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, and the specific needs of our business and organization. At Astronics CSC, it is uncommon for new hires to receive an offer at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are made based on the unique facts and circumstances of each candidate. The current estimated yearly salary range for this position is $68,000 to $85,000 per year. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus. Astronics offers a competitive salary, along with opportunities for career growth.
Astronics CSC provides a comprehensive benefits package available to full-time employees, with part-time employees potentially eligible for these benefits on a pro-rated basis.
- Stay Healthy – Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Additional benefits include disability, life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA), and voluntary programs such as life/AD&D, critical illness, accident prevention, and hospital indemnity insurance.
- Save for the Future – Astronics provides a 401(k), Profit Sharing, and Employee Stock Purchase Plan. The Astronics Corporation Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan is a safe harbor plan, with a company contribution of 3% of eligible wages and the potential for an annual discretionary addition.
- Find Balance –Programs designed to support overall wellbeing including an Employee Assistance Program, wellness initiatives, and a culture that values healthy work/life balance.
- Time for You – Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Volunteer Time Off (VTO), Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave to ensure time for rest, family, and personal pursuits.
- Professional Growth - Tuition Reimbursement Program to support ongoing education and development.
Accommodation Request
Astronics CSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail CSC.HR@astronics.com or call: 847-244-4500. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
