Production Planner I (Internal Vendor Dept)

Description Position Summary We are seeking a Production Planner to support daily manufacturing operations in our vendor departments by establishing and managing production priorities, coordinating schedules, and ensuring effective alignment of materials, labor, and equipment. This role is key to maintaining efficient workflows and meeting on‑time delivery commitments. The Production Planner will collaborate closely with production, purchasing, and cross‑functional teams to proactively identify potential constraints, adjust plans as needed, and support smooth execution across operations. Strong organizational skills, clear communication, and thoughtful coordination are essential for success in this role. This position offers a hands‑on opportunity in a fast‑paced environment that requires adaptability and attention to detail. The ideal candidate will be motivated to maintain operational efficiency and make a meaningful contribution to production performance. Key Responsibilities Create, maintain, and modify daily production schedules to support operational needs. Release and manage work orders to ensure smooth production flow and meet demand. Monitor material requirements and maintain appropriate inventory levels and availability. Track production progress and proactively identify and resolve bottlenecks or delays. Review backorders and verify that customer and production requirements are fulfilled. Support inventory corrections and adjustments on the production floor as needed. Collaborate closely with Purchasing, Engineering, Quality, Production Departments, and fellow Planning teams. Maintain ongoing communication with production supervisors and floor managers to align priorities and execution. Analyze production and capacity data to forecast needs and improve workflow efficiency. Ensure accurate and timely data entry and recordkeeping within ERP, MRP, and WIM systems. Participate in and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across operations. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Previous experience in production planning, scheduling, or a manufacturing environment strongly preferred. Strong knowledge of supply chain principles, inventory management, and production processes. Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, with advanced skills in Excel and Word. Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making. Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and departments. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Thrives in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment. Self-driven with a proactive mindset and a strong desire for continuous learning and growth. A bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field is preferred, though not required. About Whelen Engineering The Whelen Engineering Company is an American corporation that designs and manufactures audio and visual warning equipment for automotive, aviation, and mass notification industries worldwide.