Production Planner

About the Role

We're seeking a detail-driven and proactive Production Planner to join our Production team. In this role, youll coordinate production activities, manage scheduling, and support Make-to-Stock (MTS) operations by balancing demand, capacity, and inventory. Your work ensures on-time delivery, operational efficiency, and seamless cross-functional communication.

What You'll Do

• Review sales orders and forecasts to set production priorities based on customer delivery needs, raw material availability, and capacity.
• Plan and schedule daily production and product trials to support optimal productivity and inventory levels.
• Maintain appropriate safety stock levels based on risk and customer requirements.
• Analyze demand, supply chain constraints, and production status daily to proactively identify schedule risks.
• Work with Purchasing to monitor material availability via MRP and communicate forecast changes affecting supply.
• Support resolution of issues related to materials, manpower, machinery, or planning that may impact on-time delivery.
• Communicate effectively with Sales, Customer Service, Procurement, Production, Warehouse, and Shipping teams regarding order status and requirements.
• Provide input and take initiatives to support continuous improvement in production and engineering processes.
• Prepare and deliver production status reports and metrics to support organizational decision-making.
• Participate in daily cross-functional production planning meetings.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by leadership.

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a related field OR equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of relevant manufacturing experience; production planning experience preferred.
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems (JD Edwards preferred).

Skills & Strengths

• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and remain effective under pressure.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory planning, and supply chain dynamics.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and schedules.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft 365.
• Experience using JD Edwards or a similar MRP/ERP system.

Preferred Certifications

• APICS certification.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to sit, use hands for computer tasks, and communicate clearly.
• Occasional walking and reaching.
• Ability to lift or move up to 25 lbs occasionally.
• Work performed in both office and manufacturing environments.
• Manufacturing environments may vary between temperature-controlled and non-controlled areas.