Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 20,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses in operation today. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.  

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director of Materials, this role is responsible for managing the daily operations of the materials department, ensuring efficient and timely procurement, storage, and distribution of materials. This role involves coordinating with various departments, maintaining inventory levels, and implementing best practices to optimize material flow and reduce costs. The supervisor will lead a team of materials handlers, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations to ensure high productivity and adherence to safety standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supervise and coordinate the activities of the materials team, including scheduling, training, and performance management
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels, ensuring timely and accurate replenishment of materials
• Collaborate with purchasing, production, and quality control departments to ensure material availability and resolve any discrepancies
• Implement and maintain inventory management systems and processes to improve efficiency and accuracy
• Conduct regular audits of inventory to ensure compliance with company policies and procedures
• Develop and enforce safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for all team members
• Analyze material usage patterns and trends to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement
• Prepare and present reports on material status, inventory levels, and department performance to senior management
• Perform other related job duties

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of inventory management systems and software, specifically ISO 9000
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications
• Familiarity with safety regulations and best practices in materials handling

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE                            

• Bachelor's degree in Business or related field preferred
• 3 years’ supervisory experience in operational setting
• Strong background in Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) strategies and Quality Assurance (QA) initiatives
• Experience in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives

WE VALUE

• Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance;
• Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters;
• Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus;
• Ability to influence stakeholders;
• Effective communication and ability to communicate complex compensation details in a clear manner;
• Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you;
• Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.

*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive.  They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird’s winning culture is fueled by our ability to respect, encourage, celebrate and embrace the unique perspectives of all of our employees.  We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer who is committed to providing all of our employees with a work environment free of discrimination or harassment.  We base our employment decisions on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, national, social or ethnic origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.  

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.

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