Production Planner - Job Description

Job Title:

Production Planner

Department:

Operations / Manufacturing

Reports To:

Production Manager / Supply Chain Manager

Job Summary

The Production Planner is responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating manufacturing processes to ensure timely production and delivery of goods. This role ensures optimal use of resources (materials, machinery, and labor) while maintaining efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Production Planning & Scheduling

• Develop and maintain production schedules based on customer orders, forecasts, and inventory levels
• Coordinate daily, weekly, and monthly production plans
• Adjust schedules in response to delays, demand changes, or supply disruptions

2. Inventory & Material Planning

• Monitor raw material availability and coordinate with procurement teams
• Ensure optimal inventory levels (avoid stockouts and overstocking)
• Work with warehouse teams to track material flow

3. Coordination & Communication

• Collaborate with production, procurement, logistics, and quality teams
• Communicate production priorities and changes to relevant stakeholders
• Liaise with sales or customer service teams on delivery timelines

4. Capacity Planning

• Evaluate production capacity and identify constraints
• Optimize machine utilization and workforce allocation
• Recommend improvements to increase efficiency

5. Data Analysis & Reporting

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as:On-time deliveryProduction efficiencyInventory turnover
• Prepare regular reports and forecasts for management
• Use ERP/MRP systems for planning and tracking

6. Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Identify bottlenecks and suggest corrective actions
• Support lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives
• Participate in process improvement projects

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field

Experience

• 2-5+ years of experience in production planning or manufacturing operations (varies by role level)

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Strong Excel and data analysis skills
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and workflow

Soft Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication and coordination abilities
• Problem-solving mindset
• Attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in APICS (CPIM or CSCP)
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma
• Knowledge of demand forecasting techniques

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Production schedule adherence
• On-time order fulfillment
• Inventory accuracy and turnover
• Resource utilization efficiency
• Reduction of downtime and delays

Working Conditions

• Typically based in a manufacturing or production environment
• May require occasional overtime during peak production periods

Career Path

• Senior Production Planner
• Production Manager
• Supply Chain Manager / Operations Manager