Job Title: Buyer / Inventory Control / MRP CoordinatorJob Description We are seeking a versatile Buyer / Inventory Control / MRP Coordinator to support our small manufacturing operation. This role is responsible for purchasing materials, maintaining accurate inventory, and managing our Material Requirements Planning (MRP) system to ensure production runs smoothly. In a lean environment, this position is highly hands-on and requires flexibility, problem-solving, and strong communication across departments. Responsibilities + Place and track purchase orders for raw materials, components, and supplies. + Negotiate pricing and delivery schedules with vendors. + Maintain vendor files and resolve delivery or quality issues quickly. + Perform regular cycle counts and reconcile discrepancies. + Maintain accurate stock records and ensure materials are available when needed. + Organize and optimize warehouse space to support efficient operations. + Run MRP reports to align material availability with production schedules. + Adjust purchasing and inventory plans based on demand changes. + Communicate material shortages or delays to production and management. + Work closely with production staff to anticipate material needs. + Provide updates to management on inventory status and purchasing activities. + Assist with continuous improvement projects to streamline supply chain processes. Essential Skills + 2–4 years of experience in purchasing, inventory control, or production planning, preferably in manufacturing. + Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems; ability to learn quickly if new to the company’s system. + Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. + Proficiency in Excel, especially in using pivot tables. + Strong understanding of BOM (Bill of Materials). + Effective communication skills across departments. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Knowledgeable of Katana MRP is a plus. + Comfortable in a small company environment where responsibilities overlap and flexibility is key. Work Environment This position is based onsite in Carlsbad, within a manufacturing environment, working with a team of 12 people. The environment promotes growth opportunities and a dynamic work experience. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $50.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Dec 12, 2025. About Aston Carter: Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.