Job Summary The Production Planner is responsible for developing, coordinating, and managing production schedules to ensure that customer demand is met while optimizing manufacturing efficiency and minimizing inventory costs. This role requires close collaboration with production, procurement, quality assurance, and logistics teams to ensure smooth production flow and timely delivery of finished products. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, proficient with ERP and planning software, and able to analyze data to drive continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities • Production Scheduling & Planning: • Develop and maintain the Master Production Schedule (MPS) based on sales forecasts, customer orders, and production capacity. • Translate the MPS into detailed daily and weekly production plans, ensuring optimal utilization of resources. • Monitor production progress and adjust schedules in real time to address bottlenecks or unexpected disruptions. • Forecasting & Demand Management: • Analyze historical production data, market trends, and sales forecasts to predict future production needs. • Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to incorporate demand changes and new product introductions into planning. • Material Requirements Planning (MRP): • Work closely with the procurement and inventory teams to ensure the timely availability of raw materials and components. • Manage material planning in the ERP system, ensuring accurate stock levels and minimizing excess or obsolete inventory. • Data Management & Reporting: • Maintain and update production data using ERP systems and advanced Excel spreadsheets. • Generate regular reports on production performance, schedule adherence, capacity utilization, and inventory levels. • Identify trends, potential issues, and opportunities for improvement in the production process. • Collaboration & Continuous Improvement: • Coordinate with production, quality assurance, and maintenance teams to ensure production plans are realistic and aligned with operational capabilities. • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing production scheduling, reducing waste, and enhancing efficiency. • Provide recommendations for process improvements based on data analysis and industry best practices. • Compliance & Standards: • Ensure that production plans comply with internal policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. • Support quality initiatives by ensuring that production processes are aligned with quality standards and customer requirements. Qualifications • Education: • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field. • Experience: • Minimum of 3 years’ experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations planning in a manufacturing environment. • Experience in industries with complex production processes (e.g., heavy machinery, automotive components) is an advantage. • Technical Skills: • Proficient in ERP systems and planning tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or equivalent MRP software). • Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel (including pivot tables, complex formulas, and data analysis). • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions. • Soft Skills: • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • Strong organizational and time-management abilities. • Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail. • Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Job Title
Senior Production Planner