DescriptionThe Senior Production Planner is responsible for developing and managing production plans and schedules to ensure customer orders are completed on time while balancing capacity, materials, inventory, and cost. This role analyzes demand, forecasts, plant capacity, and material availability; works closely with Operations, Purchasing, Sales, Customer Service, and Logistics; and resolves issues that could impact production schedules. The Senior Production Planner also mentors other planners, supports Lean/Six Sigma initiatives, manages Kanban and inventory strategies, and uses ERP systems, reporting, and data analytics to improve efficiency, on-time delivery, and overall supply chain performance. This position requires strong manufacturing and supply chain experience, advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, leadership ability, and excellent communication skills.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:- Analyzes product demand, sales patterns/forecasts, production specifications and plant capacity data
- Resolves manufacturing resource and material availability issues affecting schedule
- Create and manage multiple plans and schedules for customers' product families to ensure timely completion of orders (i.e. VMI, KANBAN)
- Mentor and support other Production Planners (i.e. train, best practices)
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure production goals align with business objectives (i.e. purchasing, operations, sales)
- Develop cost savings methods for effective inventory levels for purchase & manufacture assemblies through ERP, maintenance of WIP, safety stock & lead-time settings
- Manage customer requirements including manufacturing schedules/production, planning and order integrity by directing manufacturing and logistics to optimize supply chain availability
- Oversee inventory levels, ensuring the right balance between production needs and cost efficiency.
- Generate reports (i.e. production, KPIs) for data driven decision-making
- Implement kanban replenishment methods for components both purchase and manufactured
- Identify Lean/Six Sigma opportunities to improve on time delivery and other key metrics
- Ensure production processes comply with company policies, safety and quality standards
- Own demand / capacity analysis and action plans to support sales forecast changes, customer inquiries and recovery plans
- Integrate demand forecasts, customer orders, and material availability to develop executable production schedules
- Evaluate and implement planning tools, automation, and analytics to improve scalability and agility
- Define and own communication of raw material, components required to support sales plan
- Determine Job demand / Define dates and quantities
- Set shipment date requirements with input from Customer Service Ops
- Collaborate and support Customer Service Ops Specialists on delivery planning and customer commitments
- Support Commercial and Quoting teams for new business capacity inquiries; including availability and lead time for capacity expansion
Skills:- Extensive experience in manufacturing and production/supply chain/logistics/distribution
- Experience working with planning software/ERP systems and advanced computer skills (i.e. Microsoft)
- Advanced analytical, problem-solving, detail oriented, organizational, and time management skills
- Effective project management skills and able to work under pressure
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration
- Demonstrates leadership and strategic thinking skills (i.e. conflict resolution, negotiation, soft skills)
•
Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent experienceWhat You Bring:•
Safety Mindset: Consistent usage of required PPE and safety procedures for tasks being performed.
•
Experience: Demonstrated longevity of at least eight consecutive months in previous employment. Top Candidates will have working experience on CNC machines.
•
Team Mentality:•
Time Management: Reliable, on-time attendance record; Ability to efficiently reach productivity goals.
•
Adaptability: Work in an environment with frequently changing temperatures; Ability to work overtime when required; Eagerness to learn processes and procedures in multiple areas.
•
Collaborative: Promote a culture of teamwork where we help each other to learn and meet shared goals.
•
Communication: Share information clearly, listen to understand, resolve issues through open dialogue, and use communication tools to stay connected. Must be able to read, write and conduct business in English with or without reasonable accommodation.
•
Thoroughness: The ability to properly perform quality checks; Focus on accuracy to provide our customers with the best possible experience; ability to follow verbal and written instructions; perform a variety of clerical functions as needed and understand basic math.
What You Will Get:• Medical, dental, vision and prescription benefits starting last day of the month.
• 10 paid vacation days (prorated first calendar year), up to 9 paid holidays
• Company paid Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programs providing financial advice, personal and group therapy, etc.
• College tuition assistance program available after 6 months of employment.
• A safety focused workplace
• Numerous avenues for personal and professional growth through training and upward movement within Norwood.
• 401(k) savings plans
• Health Lifestyle Programs
• Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
• Career Development
All eligible candidates MUST pass the following pre-employment screenings before they can be hired to Norwood:• Background Screening• Drug Screening 
