We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Production Planner to manage all aspects of production planning in a custom manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for releasing, monitoring, and managing work orders to ensure timely, accurate, and efficient production. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, experience with ERP systems (preferably SAP), and a solid understanding of production workflows, inventory management, and lean manufacturing principles.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage the full lifecycle of production work orders—from creation to completion—ensuring data accuracy, timely release, and alignment with production goals.
Maintain and update the production schedule based on demand forecasts, capacity constraints, and material availability.
Act as a liaison between Production, Customer Service, Project Management, Sales, and other departments to coordinate production plans and resolve scheduling issues.
Track production progress and order status in SAP; provide committed dates and identify potential delays or bottlenecks.
Analyze demand planning and inventory data to optimize schedules and ensure efficient resource utilization.
Collaborate with Purchasing and Supply Chain to forecast material requirements and mitigate potential disruptions.
Apply lean manufacturing practices to streamline workflow and minimize waste.
Generate and maintain reports on production status, rates, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Provide backup support to the Production Control Supervisor and Operations Manager as needed.
Use ERP tools for demand planning, forecasting, production scheduling, inventory, and materials management.
Analyze MRP and Material Master data for accuracy; adjust system settings to optimize outcomes.
Develop build schedules using ERP data, capacity management, and lead times to meet customer demand.
Monitor and balance work center capacity/load while considering customer and internal priorities
Regularly update manufacturing due dates to keep production plans current.
Prepare analytical reports to support business decision-making.
Support inventory level management, backlog monitoring, and product availability analysis.
Review and recommend changes to standard lot sizes, safety stock levels, and forecast parameters.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams to address urgent orders, material shortages, or capacity issues.
Continuously seek improvements in planning, scheduling, and inventory control processes.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
APICS (CPIM) certification preferred.
1–3 years of experience in production planning or scheduling in a manufacturing environment.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems; SAP experience strongly preferred.
Skilled in Microsoft Office,
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and bills of materials (BOMs).

Soft Skills:

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; collaborative mindset.
Proactive problem-solver with a focus on continuous improvement.
Solid understanding of lean manufacturing and inventory control principles.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

Position is primarily in-office and requires regular attendance at the assigned office location.
Primarily works in a manufacturing facility with regular exposure to production areas.
Frequent interaction with manufacturing personnel, warehouse staff, and office employees.
Ability to walk the production floor and stand for extended periods as needed.
May occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
Must be able to work in an environment with varying temperatures, machinery noise, and moving equipment while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Occasional overtime or schedule flexibility may be required to support production demands and customer requirements.

Salary Range: $25.58 - $29.89 Per Hour + Bonus

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