Production Planning and Control

**Production Planning & Control (PPC) Job Description**

**Position Title**: Production Planning & Control (PPC) Coordinator/Manager

**Department**: Production/Operations

**Reports To**: Production Manager/Operations Manager

**Position Overview**:
The Production Planning & Control (PPC) role is responsible for overseeing the planning, scheduling, and control of production processes within an organization to ensure that manufacturing operations run smoothly, efficiently, and meet delivery deadlines. The role involves managing resources, coordinating with various departments, tracking inventory levels, and ensuring the production of goods aligns with customer demand and company goals. The PPC professional ensures that the production process follows established timelines, maintains quality standards, and adheres to cost controls.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Production Planning**:

- Develop and maintain detailed production schedules, ensuring optimal use of resources (labor, materials, machines).
- Collaborate with sales, procurement, and production teams to forecast demand and plan production accordingly.
- Plan and prioritize production orders based on customer requirements, inventory levels, and capacity constraints.
- **Material Management**:

- Coordinate with the procurement team to ensure raw materials and components are available on time.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels to avoid stockouts or overstocking.
- Maintain accurate records of material consumption, waste, and usage.
- **Scheduling & Capacity Planning**:

- Prepare and manage daily, weekly, and monthly production schedules to ensure on-time delivery.
- Monitor production capacity and adjust schedules to meet changes in demand, production issues, or resource availability.
- Allocate resources effectively to maximize production efficiency and minimize downtime.
- **Production Control**:

- Track and monitor the progress of production orders and adjust schedules to resolve any delays or disruptions.
- Ensure adherence to production processes, quality standards, and safety regulations.
- Identify and troubleshoot production issues, bottlenecks, or inefficiencies, and work with relevant teams to implement corrective actions.
- **Quality Assurance**:

- Ensure the finished products meet quality standards and customer specifications.
- Work with the quality control team to identify areas for improvement in the production process and product quality.
- **Data Analysis & Reporting**:

- Monitor and analyze production data (e.g., lead time, cycle time, machine utilization, and downtime) to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
- Prepare regular reports on production performance, inventory levels, and order status for senior management.
- Use data-driven insights to optimize production processes and make informed decisions.
- **Communication & Coordination**:

- Coordinate with different departments (e.g., procurement, logistics, sales, and engineering) to ensure smooth operations.
- Keep stakeholders informed of production progress, delays, and any issues that may affect delivery schedules.
- **Cost Control**:

- Track and manage production costs, including labor, materials, and overheads, to ensure production stays within budget.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, optimize resource use, and improve overall cost efficiency.
- **Continuous Improvement**:

- Participate in or lead initiatives for process improvement (e.g., lean manufacturing, Six Sigma).
- Suggest and implement new production techniques or tools to increase productivity and product quality.

**Required Qualifications**:

- **Education**: Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- **Experience**:

- 2-5 years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or control in a manufacturing or production environment.
- Familiarity with production planning software (e.g., ERP systems like SAP, Oracle, or MRP systems).
- **Skills & Competencies**:

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
- Attention to detail and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple priorities.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

**Preferred Qualifications**:

- Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies.
- Familiarity with ISO standards or other quality management systems.
- Experience in managing supply chain logistics or inventory management.

**Physical Requirements**:

- Ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods.
- Occasional lifting of materials (e.g., boxes, files) weighing up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise and machinery.

**Working Conditions**:

- Typically office-based, but may require occasional