About the role

AI summarised

Senior Planner role at Applied Materials, a semiconductor equipment company, responsible for leading R&D material planning and strategy, inventory management, cross-functional collaboration, and process improvement. The role requires 6-10 years of experience in supply chain or material planning, with strong SAP knowledge and analytical skills.

EquipmentFull-timeMaterials

Key Responsibilities

Lead material planning activities for R&D and pilot builds, ensuring timely availability of piece parts, assemblies, and consumables.
Develop and maintain material plans aligned with engineering schedules, pilot builds, and customer demo timelines.
Identify, assess, and proactively mitigate material risks, shortages, and long‑lead constraints.
Act as a focal point for complex or high‑impact R&D material issues and escalations.
Oversee R&D inventory accuracy, valuation, and material movements across lab and warehouse.
Ensure proper execution of material transactions in SAP system.
Support transition from manual or ad‑hoc tracking methods to integrated systems and dashboards where applicable.
Ensure compliance with internal controls, audit requirements, and financial policies.
Partner closely with Engineering, TPM, Procurement, Logistics, Finance, and Lab Operations teams.
Provide clear material status, shortage visibility, and recovery plans to stakeholders.
Guide and mentor junior material planners or coordinators supporting R&D operations.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to simplify and standardize R&D material planning processes.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related discipline.
6 –10 years of experience in material planning, supply chain, or inventory management.
Proven experience supporting R&D, pilot manufacturing, or engineering development environments.
Strong working knowledge of SAP system.
Experience leading cross‑functional initiatives or acting as a subject‑matter expert is preferred.
Advanced understanding of material planning, inventory control, and supply chain fundamentals.
Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced R&D environment with frequent changes and shifting priorities.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Strong ownership mindset with the ability to lead without direct authority.
Proficient in Excel and reporting tools.