What is a Material Analyst Job?
Material Analyst Jobs involve analyzing and managing the supply chain and inventory of an organization. Material Analysts play a crucial role in ensuring that the company has the right materials, at the right time, and in the right quantity. They are responsible for analyzing and forecasting demand, managing inventory levels, and coordinating with different departments to ensure a smooth supply chain. Material Analysts work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and retail.
What Do Material Analysts Usually Do in This Position?
Material Analysts are responsible for analyzing and forecasting demand for raw materials, finished goods, and supplies. They work closely with production managers, sales teams, and suppliers to ensure that the company has the right inventory levels to meet customer demand. Material Analysts also monitor inventory levels and adjust orders as needed to avoid stockouts or overstocking.
In addition, Material Analysts are responsible for managing the supply chain, including coordinating with suppliers, negotiating contracts, and tracking shipments. They are also responsible for identifying and resolving any issues that arise in the supply chain, such as delays in shipments or quality issues with suppliers.
Top 5 Skills for Material Analyst Position
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
- Knowledge of supply chain management and inventory control
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other data analysis tools
How to Become a Material Analyst Specialist?
To become a Material Analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field. Some employers may also require a master's degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field.
Additionally, gaining practical experience in supply chain management or inventory control is beneficial. You can gain this experience by working in a related field or through internships.
Certification in supply chain management, such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) designation, can also be helpful in demonstrating your expertise and knowledge in the field.
Average Salary for Material Analyst Jobs
According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for Material Analyst Jobs in the United States is around $60,000 per year. However, the salary can vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience.
Entry-level Material Analysts can expect to earn around $45,000 per year, while experienced Material Analysts can earn upwards of $80,000 per year.
Roles and Types of Material Analyst Jobs
Material Analyst Jobs can be found in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and retail. Some common job titles in this field include Material Analyst, Inventory Analyst, Supply Chain Analyst, and Demand Planner.
The responsibilities and duties of Material Analysts can also vary depending on the industry and company. For example, a Material Analyst in a manufacturing company may be responsible for analyzing raw material demand and coordinating with suppliers to ensure timely delivery, while a Material Analyst in a retail company may be responsible for managing inventory levels and analyzing sales data to forecast demand.
Locations with the Most Popular Material Analyst Jobs in the USA
Material Analyst Jobs can be found throughout the United States, but some locations have a higher concentration of these positions. According to Glassdoor, some of the top cities for Material Analyst Jobs include Houston, TX, Chicago, IL, Atlanta, GA, and Dallas, TX.
What are the Typical Tools Used by Material Analysts?
Material Analysts use a variety of tools to perform their duties, including:
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software
- Data analysis tools, such as Microsoft Excel and Tableau
- Inventory management software
- Supply chain management software
- Forecasting tools
In Conclusion
Material Analysts play a critical role in ensuring that organizations have the right materials, at the right time, and in the right quantity. They are responsible for analyzing and forecasting demand, managing inventory levels, and coordinating with different departments to ensure a smooth supply chain. Material Analysts work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and retail, and can be found throughout the United States. To become a Material Analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree in business or a related field, along with practical experience in supply chain management or inventory control. Certification in supply chain management can also be beneficial in demonstrating your expertise and knowledge in the field.