MRO Controller

POSITION SUMMARY

The MRO Controller is responsible for overseeing the procurement, inventory management, and distribution of maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) materials within a TPO manufacturing facility. This role ensures the availability of critical spare parts, tools, and supplies to support uninterrupted plant operations while optimizing inventory levels and controlling costs. The MRO controller collaborates with maintenance, production, and procurement teams to maintain a highly efficient and well-organized storeroom and purchasing system.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

Inventory & Storeroom Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the MRO storeroom, ensuring proper stocking, organization, and control of spare parts and consumables.
• Implement and maintain an efficient inventory management system (e.g., CMMS, ERP) to track usage, replenishment, and stock levels.
• Monitor and analyze inventory trends to prevent stockouts and overstocking while optimizing working capital.
• Establish and enforce best practices for inventory accuracy, cycle counting, and parts identification

Procurement & Vendor Relations:

• Work with procurement teams to source and purchase MRO supplies, negotiating contracts with suppliers for cost savings and improved service.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of critical components.
• Evaluate supplier performance and identify opportunities for alternative sourcing to mitigate supply chain risks.
• Ensure compliance with corporate purchasing policies and procedures.

Maintenance Support & Coordination:

• Coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure critical parts availability for scheduled and emergency repairs.
• Assist in planning and forecasting MRO needs based on historical data, equipment reliability, and production demands.
• Support maintenance teams by ensuring efficient check-in/check-out processes for tools and equipment.

Cost Control & Continuous Improvement:

• Implement cost-saving initiatives related to MRO purchasing and inventory management.
• Drive continuous improvement in storeroom efficiency, including layout optimization and digital tracking enhancements.
• Identify and implement strategies to reduce lead times and enhance part reliability.

Compliance & Safety:

• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and environmental standards in the MRO function.
• Maintain proper storage and handling of hazardous materials, ensuring MSDS documentation is up to date.
• Train and enforce proper safety practices for storeroom personnel.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Industrial Maintenance, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in MRO inventory management, procurement, or maintenance supervision within a manufacturing environment, preferably in textile, chemical, or automotive industries.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in inventory management systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Maximo, or other CMMS/ERP software).
• Strong understanding of MRO procurement processes, supplier negotiations, and cost reduction strategies.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic components used in manufacturing equipment.

Soft Skills:

• Strong organizational and leadership skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with maintenance, procurement, and production teams.
• Problem-solving mindset with a continuous improvement approach.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a textile or similar heavy manufacturing environment.
• Certification in inventory management (e.g., CPIM, CMRP) or procurement (e.g., CPSM).
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) principles.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily works in a plant/manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, and heavy equipment.
• May require lifting up to 50 lbs., standing for extended periods, and occasional travel for vendor visits or training.