Senior Planner

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. 

What We Offer

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You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more. 

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits. 

R&D Material Planning & Strategy

• 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.

Inventory & System Management

• 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.

Cross‑Functional Leadership

• 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.

Process Improvement & Transformation

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to simplify and standardize R&D material planning processes.
• Support implementation and adoption of new R&D material management tools or systems.
• Identify opportunities to reduce cycle time, manual effort, and planning variability.
• Develop and maintain standard work, guidelines, and best practices for R&D material planning.

Reporting & Governance

• Prepare and present material status reports, risk summaries, and inventory insights to management.
• Support internal and external audits with accurate documentation and data.
• Ensure clear ownership, accountability, and governance for R&D material processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• 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.

Skills & Competencies

• 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.

Additional Information

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Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.