Pay Rate: $100,000 – $135,000
Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Industry: Tier 1 Automotive | Formed Plastic Components
Join a Global Leader in Automotive Manufacturing
A global Tier 1 automotive supplier specializing in formed plastic components is seeking an experienced Materials Manager to join its high-performing team in Chattanooga, TN. With over 60 manufacturing facilities worldwide and 7,000+ employees, this company is committed to innovation, operational excellence, and succession planning—making it an exceptional place to grow your career.
This role is pivotal to the plant’s success, overseeing materials, logistics, inventory control, and scheduling functions to ensure Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery and efficient plant operations. You’ll be a strategic leader, working cross-functionally and reporting directly to plant leadership.
Automotive (Tier 1 or Tier 2) manufacturing experience is required—no exceptions.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as a key member of the plant leadership team, driving strategic materials planning and operational efficiency.
Lead the materials department, including production scheduling, inventory control, raw material planning, and logistics.
Supervise team members, including office/reception staff and HS&E responsibilities per WCFP standards.
Manage MRP activities, including reviewing customer releases and issuing vendor releases.
Oversee warehousing, shipping, and receiving functions to ensure timely delivery and cost control.
Ensure system accuracy using AS400 or similar ERP systems; act as liaison to the IT department.
Optimize freight utilization and reduce logistics costs while maintaining customer satisfaction.
Monitor and manage the department’s operating budget.
Uphold and promote safe work practices across all materials and logistics functions.
What You’ll Bring
Required Skills & Expertise
Proven experience in materials management, inventory control, production scheduling, purchasing, warehousing, and logistics in a JIT manufacturing environment.
Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems (AS400, AS36, or similar platforms).
Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making under pressure.
Capable of analyzing complex data and presenting insights to senior leadership.
Experience resolving supplier and internal production issues effectively.
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree preferred; OR
1–2 years of relevant training and experience; OR
An equivalent combination of education and hands-on materials management experience.
Prior automotive industry experience is mandatory.
Why Chattanooga, TN?
Nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by scenic mountains, Chattanooga offers a vibrant lifestyle with a low cost of living, no state income tax, and excellent access to outdoor activities. The city is also a growing hub for advanced manufacturing, making it a great place for automotive professionals to thrive.
Why This is a Standout Opportunity
Join a stable and growing global manufacturer with a reputation for promoting from within.
Be part of a company that values leadership development and career progression.
Contribute directly to operational excellence and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced industry.
Competitive compensation and benefits in a supportive, success-driven environment.
Take the Next Step in Your Automotive Career
If you have a strong background in automotive materials management and are looking to take your career to the next level with a global Tier 1 supplier, we want to hear from you!
Apply now and become a key player in one of the industry's top-performing teams.
Materials Manager, Automotive Supply Chain, Tier 1 Automotive, Production Scheduling, Logistics, Inventory Control, JIT Manufacturing, AS400, ERP Systems, Vendor Releases, MRP, Automotive Jobs Chattanooga, Plant Operations, Formed Plastics, Warehousing, Automotive Supply Chain Manager