Lead the Flow. Drive Results. Build a High-Performing Team.

Are you a hands-on Materials Management professional who thrives on organization, accountability, and continuous improvement? Do you have the leadership skills to build strong teams and the business acumen to drive measurable results?

A growing and highly respected sheet metal fabrication manufacturer in Des Plaines is seeking an experienced Materials Manager to lead all aspects of our materials operations. This is a high-impact leadership role reporting directly to the Director of Materials, with responsibility for ensuring seamless material flow from receiving through shipping while developing a culture of performance, teamwork, and operational excellence.

If you are a strategic thinker who can also roll up your sleeves, analyze data, improve processes, and inspire people, we want to hear from you.

What You'll Lead

As Materials Manager, you will oversee all functions within the Materials Department, including:

• Shipping and Receiving
• Stockroom and Inventory Control
• Material Handling and Warehouse Operations
• Cycle Counting and Inventory Accuracy
• Production Material Availability
• Logistics Coordination
• Team Development and Performance Management

You will be responsible for creating efficient processes, driving accountability, and ensuring materials are available when needed to support customer commitments and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of materials professionals, fostering a culture of teamwork, safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure efficient flow of materials throughout the facility to support production schedules and customer delivery requirements.
• Maintain high levels of inventory accuracy through disciplined inventory control practices and cycle counting programs.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to inventory, on-time shipments, receiving performance, material availability, and productivity.
• Analyze operational data and financial metrics to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Collaborate closely with Purchasing, Production, Planning, Quality, and Operations teams to optimize material flow and customer satisfaction.
• Develop and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Manage warehouse organization, space utilization, and material handling best practices.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and operational procedures.
• Prepare reports and present performance metrics to senior leadership.

What We're Looking For

• Proven leadership experience in Materials Management, Warehouse Management, Inventory Control, or Supply Chain Operations within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication, metal manufacturing, or related industrial manufacturing environments preferred.
• Strong financial and business acumen with the ability to analyze data, interpret metrics, and make informed decisions.
• Advanced computer proficiency, including ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Demonstrated success developing teams and improving operational performance.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Results-driven mindset with a passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Why This Opportunity?

This is more than a management role—it's an opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing manufacturing operation. You'll have the support of senior leadership, the autonomy to improve processes, and the ability to build a best-in-class materials organization.

If you're ready to lead people, improve processes, and deliver measurable results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we'd like to meet you.

Apply today and become a key contributor to our continued growth and success.

Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• 1. Describe your experience managing materials, inventory, and production planning in a manufacturing environment. What products were being manufactured?
• 2. Tell me about a time you prevented or resolved a material shortage that threatened production schedules. What actions did you take?
• 3. What ERP/MRP systems have you used, and how have you utilized them for demand planning, purchasing, and inventory control?
• 4. How do you balance maintaining enough raw material inventory to support production while minimizing excess inventory and carrying costs?

Work Location: In person