2026 Associate Supply Chain Planning Specialist - Dulles VA Hybrid
The Associate Supply Chain Planning Specialist supports material planning and execution by aligning supply requirements with business priorities in a hybrid role based in Dulles, VA. Responsibilities include demand-supply planning using MRP tools, inventory management across BOMs, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and development of supply chain metrics using data visualization tools to enable data-driven decisions. This entry-level position offers exposure to complex supply chain processes within the aerospace and defense industry, emphasizing analytical skills and continuous improvement.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Aerospace & Defense.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Associate Supply Chain Planning Specialist for a hybrid role based in Dulles Town Center, VA. You will join the Global Supply Chain team to support material planning and demand‑supply alignment that ensures product availability while optimizing inventory and working capital.
- Support development and execution of material plans by aligning supply with product priorities under guidance from senior planners.
- Execute demand‑supply planning using MRP tools; maintain and analyze forecasts, review purchase‑material positions, and assist with capacity and production schedules.
- Monitor and adjust inventory across multi‑level BOMs to balance service levels, working capital, and stock‑out risk.
- Collaborate with sourcing, operations, and finance to align inventory targets, handle non‑standard part requirements, and escalate procurement issues.
- Provide data and recommendations for long‑term capacity and resource planning, including support for new product introductions.
- Build and present supply chain metrics and KPIs (inventory, on‑time delivery, material availability) using Power BI, Tableau, and Excel to support data‑driven decisions.
Minimum Qualifications
A candidate must meet ALL of the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (0–2 years related experience).
- Major in Supply Chain, Operations, Industrial Engineering, Business (supply chain emphasis), or similar field.
- Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar).
- Understanding of forecasts, material requirements, and bills of material (BOMs).
- Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, basic formulas).
- Experience or familiarity with data visualization tools (Power BI and/or Tableau).
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and clear written/verbal communication.
- Ability to work independently and with cross‑functional teams.
- Must be able to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre‑requisite).
Preferred Qualifications
- Cumulative GPA of 3.00/4.0 or higher.
- Experience in aerospace/defense or regulated manufacturing.
- Hands‑on knowledge of end‑to‑end supply chain processes (forecasting, S&OP, procurement, production, logistics).
- Experience with make vs. buy analysis, product phase in/out, and engineering change impacts.
- Demonstrated success optimizing inventory across multi‑level BOMs.
- Intermediate to advanced Power BI/Tableau skills for automated dashboards.
- Familiarity with lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methods.
- APICS/ASCM CPIM, CSCP, or similar certification (completed or in progress).
Compensation & Work Type
- Salary range (provided by source): USD 63,000 — 94,600 per year.
- Hybrid, on‑site in Dulles Town Center, VA (occasional travel ~10%).
- Employment type: Full‑time.
Eligibility & Other Requirements
- U.S. citizenship required for positions that need a government security clearance.
- Ability to pass background checks and obtain necessary clearances.
- Confidential Client adheres to applicable federal, state, and local hiring laws.
About the Industry
This role supports Aerospace & Defense operations focused on reliable, secure supply chain delivery for complex, technically sophisticated products and programs.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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