A Production Planner plans and manages production and distribution processes for a company and identifies ways to improve efficiency. Analyzes work flows, plans and schedules orders, manages materials orders and monitors inventory; coordinates with suppliers and vendors.
Teams Video Interview | Possible Onsite Final Interview Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented Downstream Planner to join a manufacturing operations team in El Paso, TX. This position is responsible for managing material flow, supporting production planning activities, maintaining inventory targets, and ensuring uninterrupted production through effective materials planning and supplier coordination. The ideal candidate will have experience with MRP, SAP, production scheduling, inventory management, and supply chain operations in a manufacturing environment. Key ResponsibilitiesMaterial Planning & Inventory Management Manage daily MRP exception messages, including past due, expedite, push-out, and cancellation requirements. Ensure material availability to support production schedules and customer demand. Monitor inventory levels and support achievement of inventory performance targets. Review and adjust planning parameters including safety stock, minimum lot sizes, lead times, pallet quantities, lot-sizing procedures, and rounding values. Conduct quarterly reviews of replenishment strategies, including Kanban, Reorder Point (ROP), and MRP processes. Supplier & Purchase Order Management Expedite purchase orders and coordinate with suppliers to resolve material shortages. Manage crisis shortages and communicate production priorities to suppliers. Perform monthly vendor forecast reviews and open order reviews with suppliers. Update SAP purchase order due dates and maintain planning accuracy. Collaborate with upstream teams to obtain estimated arrival times for missing materials. Production Planning & Scheduling Follow up on SAP planning order exceptions and production order status. Create and publish daily production schedules and plans. Convert planned orders into production orders within SAP as required. Release production orders and prepare them for manufacturing execution. Monitor production schedule attainment and identify barriers impacting execution. Support finished goods production scheduling activities. Review release simulations to identify missing parts and evaluate production readiness. Coordinate with kitting and production teams to resolve material constraints. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Master Production Schedule (MPS) Planners and Production Schedulers. Work closely with manufacturing, procurement, inventory control, and supplier teams. Support continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and optimize material flow. Assist in resolving supply chain disruptions and production-related issues. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field from an accredited institution. Experience with Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems. Experience with ERP systems and inventory management processes. Knowledge of production scheduling and materials planning methodologies. Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including data analysis and reporting. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting abilities. Strong organizational and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with SAP in a manufacturing environment. Experience in materials management, supply chain planning, or production control. Understanding of inventory optimization and replenishment strategies. Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives. Medical, dental, and vision insurance are available to qualified candidates who meet eligibility requirements.
