A Materials Planner plays a vital role in the supply chain by ensuring that raw materials and components are available for production when needed. Their main tasks include forecasting material requirements, monitoring inventory levels, placing orders with suppliers, and coordinating with production teams to prevent shortages or excess stock. This role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to analyse data to predict future needs. Materials planners use software systems to track stock and often work closely with purchasing, logistics, and production departments to keep operations running smoothly. Good communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as unexpected issues with suppliers or demand may require quick thinking and adaptation.
Materials Planners in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning up to £40,000.
There are approximately 3,000 to 4,000 materials planning roles advertised annually in the UK across various industries.
The majority of materials planners work in manufacturing, automotive, engineering, and retail sectors.
Coordinates the timing and sequence of manufacturing tasks to ensure materials and resources are available for efficient production.
Monitors and manages stock levels, analyses usage trends, and implements systems to ensure materials are available without overstocking.
Supports the purchasing team by sourcing materials, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring timely delivery for manufacturing needs.
Obtain at least five GCSEs including English and Maths, which are usually required for entry-level roles and further study.
Having a good foundation in Maths and English is essential for most logistics and planning roles. Some employers may also look for GCSEs in subjects like Science or Business Studies. These qualifications help prove your ability to handle the numeracy and organisational skills needed in this career.
Pursue A-levels, BTECs, or an apprenticeship in a relevant subject such as Business, Logistics, or Supply Chain Management.
Courses related to business, logistics, or supply chain offer an insight into how goods move from suppliers to customers. Apprenticeships can be an excellent route, providing both practical experience and formal qualifications.
Apply for roles such as Logistics Assistant, Warehouse Operative, or Supply Chain Administrator to gain hands-on experience.
Working in an entry-level logistics or supply chain role will help you understand the day-to-day operations of materials planning. You will learn how to manage stock, process orders, and work with key software systems.
Learn to use inventory management and planning software, and work on your communication skills for dealing with suppliers and internal teams.
Materials Planners often use systems like SAP or Oracle for managing stock and planning. Strong communication is important for liaising between departments and suppliers to ensure production runs smoothly.
With experience and qualifications, seek out Materials Planner positions within manufacturing, engineering, or retail companies.
Look for job opportunities on company websites or job boards like Indeed, Reed, and Totaljobs. Employers typically look for candidates with a mix of education and hands-on experience in logistics or supply chain roles.
Consider professional courses or memberships, such as those offered by CIPS or CILT, to enhance your career prospects.
Professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) or the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) offer courses and networking opportunities to help you stay up to date with best practices and progress into more senior roles.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Materials Planner. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Materials Planner and a Materials Technician both require a solid understanding of materials, supply chains, and technical specifications. The role of a Materials Technician typically involves working with materials data and ensuring proper handling and supply, which aligns closely with the responsibilities of a Materials Planner in organising and managing materials for production or projects.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a college course to learn some of the skills you'll need for this job. Courses include:
You may need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
To become a materials technician, you could do a Non-destructive Testing Level 2 Intermediate or Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You could also do a Composites Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You'll usually need:
You could start as a lab assistant or trainee technician in a testing facility and train while you work to qualify.
Employers will expect you to have 4 or 5 GCSEs, including maths, English and a science, preferably physics or chemistry.
Some may want you to have A levels or equivalent qualifications in a subject such as applied science.
You can find out more about careers in materials engineering from Discover Materials and the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
