Planner

About Us:

How many companies can say they’ve been in business for over 177 years?!

Here at ZEISS, we certainly can! As the pioneers of science, ZEISS handles ever-changing environments in a fast-paced world, meeting it with cutting edge of technologies and continuous advancements. ZEISS believes that innovation and technology are the key to a sustainable future and solutions for global change. We have a diverse range of portfolios throughout the ZEISS family in segments like Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, Consumer Markets and Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology. We are a global company with over 42,000 employees and have over 4,000 in the US and Canada alone! Make a difference, come join the team!

Location/Region: This position is located in Toronto, Canada.

What’s the role?

This position has ownership of the inventory and materials planning functions within both Carl Zeiss Vision Canada Inc. (lab) and Carl Zeiss Canada Ltd. (SSC). The scope of the planning activities covers raw materials, consumables and non-inventory purchased materials.  The Planning function will support department experts in the planning, management and control of materials by providing advice, guidance and structure to the processes. Control and distribution of the supplies across the lab.

Sound Interesting?

Here’s what you’ll do:

Profitability and Process Improvement

• Drive laboratory profitability by implementing initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost optimization.
• Utilize tools to present, track, resolve, maintain, and communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) related to logistics, procurement, and supply chain activities.

Inventory and Stock Management

• Plan and manage inventory for raw materials, consumables, and purchased goods for CZV and CZC operations.
• Oversee inventory control, ensuring material availability while maintaining cost efficiency.
• Implement proper storage practices, including FIFO (First-In, First-Out) consumption, and ensure the timely disposal of expired products.
• Define storage and distribution points, as well as minimum and maximum stock levels for materials.
• Optimize storage space to facilitate inventory cycling and organization.
• Lead the annual cycle counting process to ensure inventory accuracy.

Procurement and Vendor Management

• Collaborate with Materials Associates to ensure timely replenishment of raw materials and consumables and non inventory materials.
• Evaluate and recommend suppliers to improve procurement processes.
• Assist with vendor identification, purchase order placement, and follow-ups on open orders.
• Coordinate with the purchasing department and global logistics teams to align demand and planning.
• Place purchase requisitions using SAP and related cloud-based systems.
• Ensure efficient and cost-effective purchasing practices, including planning purchase orders to avoid stockouts and rush shipments.

Reporting and Communication

• Generate and share reports to provide visibility into the planning and management of consumables and inventory.
• Follow up with vendors on open orders and communicate order and shipment statuses to stakeholders, ensuring alignment across departments.

Logistics and Shipping Coordination

• Act as a liaison with logistics service providers to ensure on-time delivery of shipments.
• Prepare and manage export documentation for international shipments.
• Coordinate with freight forwarders to ensure smooth logistics operations.

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Prepare and present data to all levels in the company on production results and forecasts
• Monitor industry trends that impact lab operations and look for ways to continue to improve through improved cost and inventory control.
• Perform other related duties and projects as assigned.

Do you qualify?

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field required.
• 3-5 years of experience in production planning, inventory management, or supply chain operations required.

Skills and Competencies

• Logistics & Export Experience: Proven experience working with logistics service providers, particularly in handling high-value shipments. Skilled in preparing and managing export documentation in compliance with global trade regulations.
• Procurement Knowledge: Solid background in purchasing, with formal training and/or practical experience in procurement processes.
• Problem Solving & Troubleshooting: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly assess situations and implement effective solutions.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent communication skills for coordinating with internal teams and external suppliers. Capable of building strong relationships and influencing without authority within a matrixed, global organization.
• Technology Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), with the ability to manage spreadsheets, documentation, and presentations efficiently.
• Leadership & Critical Thinking: Demonstrated leadership competencies, including strategic thinking, customer focus, conflict resolution, process management, and a results-driven mindset.
• Work Ethic & Time Management: Self-starter with a strong work ethic and the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Highly organized with strong time management skills and attention to detail.
• Adaptability & Composure: Able to remain calm under pressure and address challenges logically and within company guidelines. Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision in fast-paced environments.
• Team-Oriented: Works effectively both independently and as part of a team. Dependable, follows instructions accurately, and maintains a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach.
• Professionalism: Communicates clearly and professionally with colleagues at all levels. Maintains a positive, respectful, and composed demeanor in all work situations.

We have amazing benefits to support you as an employee at ZEISS!

• Medical
• Vision
• Dental
• RPP
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Paid time off including vacation, personal, and sick days
• The list goes on!

ZEISS is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:

Accommodation

ZEISS is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices. Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs.