Material Planner III

Worker Type Regular Job Description Summary The Material Planner III is responsible for maintaining optimal inventory levels to support production and operational efficiency while adhering to company policies and procedures. This role involves tracking, analyzing, and reconciling inventory records to ensure accuracy and availability. The Material Control Specialist collaborates with procurement, production, and warehouse teams to optimize inventory flow and minimize discrepancies. Position Responsibilities Monitors inventory levels and ensures materials are available to meet production and operational needs. Receives and counts stock items, and records data using computerized system. Packs and unpacks items to be stocked on shelves in stockroom in an orderly and accessible manner. Conducts cycle counts and physical inventory audits to reconcile stock discrepancies. Investigates and resolves inventory variances by working closely with procurement, warehouse, and production teams. Issues or distributes materials, products, parts, and supplies to customers or coworkers, based on information from incoming requisitions. Maintains accurate inventory records in the ERP/MRP system, ensuring data integrity. Depending on warehouse, some positions may also be responsible for packaging and shipping (domestic and international -- to include small package, large freight, dangerous goods, and sensitive items). Collaborates with suppliers and internal stakeholders to track incoming shipments and expedite critical materials when necessary. Assists in implementing inventory control policies, procedures and process improvements to enhance inventory efficiency and reduce waste. Works on assignments that are moderately difficult, requiring judgment in resolving issues or in making recommendations. Performs other duties as assigned by supervisors or inventory managers. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience) High School diploma or GED equivalent is required. Minimum of 2 - 4 years of related functional experience (i.e.- previous stockroom/inventory) or equivalent combination of experience and education. Foundational knowledge of inventory management principles and warehouse operations. Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Experience working with MRP/ERP systems for inventory tracking and control. Demonstrated computer skills and proficiency using office software and/or computerized inventory control system. A valid driver's license and clean driving record is required in order to drive company vehicles. Consistently demonstrates strong problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills (verbal & written) and attention to detail. Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies APICS Certification (CPIM) or equivalent is desirable but not required. Experience using Oracle ERP or a similar system is preferred. Forklift experience desirable but not required. Prior Hazmat shipping experience (lithium-ion or equivalent) is desired. Demonstrated knowledge of safe material handling practices and the safe handling of electro-static sensitive components (ESD) is desired. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration across departments. Highly organized with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and continuous improvement mindset. Physical Demands Ability to work in an office and warehouse/manufacturing environment (Constant). Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer/mobile device and handle inventory (Constant). May operate dolly, pallet jack and/or forklift in loading and unloading supplies and equipment (Occasional). Ability to lift up to 60 lbs. and objects of varying sizes and shapes (Occasional). Clearance Level No Clearance The salary range for this role is: $23 - $35 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required