Production Planning

Job Summary:

Will develop, implement, and maintain production plans that ensure the efficient and timely manufacture of products while optimizing resource utilization and minimizing costs. Will lead the coordination between sales, engineering, production, quality, procurement and logistics to meet demand. Will conduct analysis of date, identify improvements and implement changes. Will work as required in manufacturing facility in different shifts to ensure there is no gap in knowledge and information about products, processes, people and data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Production Planning:
• Develop and implement master production schedules (MPS) based on sales forecasts, customer orders, inventory levels, and production capacity.
• Convert sales forecasts and customer orders into actionable production plans.
• Create detailed production schedules for various work centers and production lines, optimizing resource allocation (materials, machinery, labor).
• Monitor production progress against the schedule, identifying and addressing any deviations or bottlenecks.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to understand demand fluctuations and adjust production plans accordingly.
• Work closely with the purchasing department to ensure timely availability of raw materials and components.
• Inventory Management:
• Monitor and manage inventory levels of raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods to optimize stock turns and minimize carrying costs.
• Implement inventory control strategies to prevent shortages and excesses.
• Collaborate with warehousing and logistics to ensure efficient material flow.
• Production Control & Optimization:
• Track key production metrics (e.g., OEE, cycle time, lead time, on-time delivery, cost variance) and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement and monitor production control systems to ensure smooth operations.
• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks, scheduling conflicts, and resource constraints.
• Propose and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Work with the engineering and quality departments to ensure production processes meet quality standards.
• Data Analysis & Reporting:
• Generate regular reports on production performance, inventory status, and adherence to schedules.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems effectively for planning, scheduling, and data management.
• Present updates to different stakeholders in the company.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Proactively communicate with across departments.
• Participate in production meetings and provide updates on planning and scheduling.
• Support new product introductions by developing appropriate production plans.

Qualifications:

• Experience:
  4
• years
• Technical Skills:
• Proficiency with process mapping and improvement.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP preferred).
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent knowledge of production planning methodologies (e.g., MPS, MRP, Capacity Planning).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Proficiency in other Microsoft apps and AI tools (Copilot, Gemini, ChatGPT).
• Soft Skills:
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solving aptitude and the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Internal drive to self-learn for personal and professional growth.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in [
  specific industry, e.g., automotive, electronics, food & beverage, pharmaceuticals
  ].
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Certification in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS
  .