Materials Manager | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $78,000 - $118,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for inventory optimization and ensuring material availability? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We collaborate with leading companies in the Portage area seeking experienced Materials Managers to drive results.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan's manufacturing regions. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

This posting covers Materials Manager opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Portage in Kalamazoo County, within about 30 minutes of the city, including Three Rivers, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg, and Constantine.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across the Portage area seeking Materials Managers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Usual Responsibilities

• Oversee receiving, storage, and issuance of raw materials and components.
• Maintain inventory levels that support production schedules without excess stock.
• Manage cycle counts and physical inventory audits.
• Coordinate with purchasing to keep supply aligned with demand.
• Track material costs and report variances to plant leadership.
• Supervise warehouse and material handling staff.
• Resolve shortages and expedite critical materials as needed.
• Ensure material storage meets safety and compliance standards.

Recommended Qualifications

• Prior supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or a related field.
• Five or more years in materials or inventory management in manufacturing.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems for inventory control.
• Strong knowledge of inventory accuracy and cycle count methods.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with supplier negotiations and vendor management.
• Familiarity with ISO or similar quality management systems.
• Background in automotive or high-volume production environments.
• Data analysis skills using spreadsheets or reporting tools.
• APICS or similar supply chain certification.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Materials Planner, Inventory Control Manager, Inventory Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Materials Supervisor, Production Planning Manager, Warehouse Manager, Logistics Manager, Procurement Manager

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search - market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.