Senior Demand Planning Analyst – Hybrid | Lincolnshire, IL
Salary: $86,700–$95,000 (DOE)
Kubota Engine America (KEA) is a global leader in industrial engine distribution, known for innovation, reliability, and exceptional customer support. We are hiring an experienced Senior Demand Planning Analyst to drive high-impact forecasting, inventory optimization, and supply chain improvement.
This full‑time role is based in Lincolnshire, IL (north of Chicago) and transitions to a hybrid schedule after 30 days. KEA offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, PTO, STD/LTD, and a 401(k) plan.
About the Role
The Senior Demand Planning Analyst is responsible for optimizing inventory levels, improving forecast accuracy, and supporting overall supply chain performance to achieve targeted fill rates and inventory objectives. This role analyzes demand trends, maintains forecasting and replenishment parameters, and ensures alignment between system recommendations and supplier requirements. The position also leads process improvements and may support cross‑functional project teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage demand forecasts for service parts and select whole goods to meet fill rate and inventory targets.
- Develop forecasts for new, low‑volume, or irregular‑demand items using historical trends, comparable products, and sales insights.
- Oversee inventory readiness for new product launches, campaigns, and special events.
- Maintain and enhance forecasting models, stock levels, replenishment settings, and deployment strategies.
- Analyze part‑level data—including lead times, pricing, and sourcing—to establish EOQs and minimum lot sizes.
- Serve as subject matter expert for MRP, forecasting tools, and demand planning systems.
- Monitor and adjust safety stock, reorder points, and Min/Max settings to optimize inventory.
- Identify and address slow‑moving or obsolete inventory through root‑cause analysis.
- Produce clear, data‑driven reports and recommendations for leadership.
- Support development and implementation of optimization tools and process improvements.
- Collaborate with Material Planners to ensure optimal ordering and evaluate MRP/DRP performance.
- Track and report key metrics, including fill rate, inventory turns, and forecast accuracy.
- Maintain accurate documentation, uphold confidentiality, and support cross‑functional teams as needed.
Qualifications
- Expertise in aftermarket service parts and advanced demand/inventory planning systems; programming experience preferred.
- Experience with SAP ERP (EWM, APO, WM, BW) and DRP/MRP systems.
- Strong analytical, problem‑solving, including SQL proficiency and Power BI dashboard development.
- Lean (TPS/Six Sigma) experience and knowledge of inventory management principles.
- Advanced Excel proficiency and familiarity with optimization techniques.
- Proven ability to lead initiatives, work independently, and collaborate across teams.
- Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.
- Willingness to travel as needed.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, or related field; or equivalent experience.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in inventory or demand planning, ideally within agriculture, power equipment, or heavy equipment industries.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Office‑based role with moderate noise and occasional warehouse exposure.
- Extended periods of sitting with some walking, bending, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs).
- Ability to travel by car or air when required.
About the company
Company website•Industrial Machinery Manufacturing and Engines and Power Transmission Equipment Manufacturing
Kubota Corporation and Kubota Engine America pioneered the compact, high-density diesel market as an alternative to small gasoline engines. In response to the continued rise in diesel engine demand in the US market, KEA was formed as an independent company and a subsidiary of Kubota Corporation in 1982 and is headquartered in Lincolnshire, Illinois.
Kubota is the world’s leading manufacturer of both compact diesel and gasoline engines, for industrial, agricultural, construction and generator applications. The company has built an extensive engine and generator distribution network with more than 800 dealers in North America, South America and the Caribbean to support its customer base. Kubota prides itself on its track record for reliability and engineering that fulfills its “For Earth, For Life” philosophy.
Working for Kubota Engine America is more than just a job. It is being part of a team that is committed to providing excellent service to our customers, adding value to the community in which we work and live, and protecting our environment. It is where commitment to excellence is rewarded, and diversity is respected and valued.
Kubota Engine America realizes that its team members are the driving force behind its success. Because of this, team members are generously rewarded with competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits program and learning and development opportunities.
Kubota Engine America offers career opportunities in fields of accounting, engineering, finance, human resources, information technology, sales and marketing, parts, service and distribution.