Production Planner

Production Planner 180 Engineering
• Chicago, IL

The Production Planner is responsible for coordinating and expediting the flow of products and materials through the entire production cycle to ensure on‑time delivery while optimizing resources and minimizing costs. This role requires a understanding of metal fabrication processes, excellent analytical skills, problem‑solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.

• Create and maintain production schedules based on customer orders, pull system scheduling systems, and resource availability.
• Ensure the timely availability of raw materials and components, placing purchase orders as needed.
• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as needed to accommodate unforeseen conditions, communicating changes to all relevant stakeholders.
• Manage raw material & components, work‑in‑progress (WIP), and finished goods inventory levels to optimize stock levels and prevent shortages or excesses.
• Collaborate with engineering and production supervisors to resolve any issues related to manufacturing efficiencies, material shortages, or schedule delays.
• Utilize and maintain the company's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems for production planning and inventory management.
• Ensure inventory accuracy through personnel training, periodic cycle counts, and ERP system management.
• Oversee shipping & receiving activities to ensure compliance with procedures and inventory accuracy. Manage shipping claims and receipt discrepancies.
• Provide production supervisory support as needed and when the Production Manager is absent.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean Manufacturing, to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs.
• Work with the Production Manager and Mfg Engineers to optimize work cell layouts and implement visual manufacturing tools.
• Work with the operations management team to implement a 5S recurring audit program.

• Proven experience as a Production Planner or similar role in a manufacturing or job‑shop environment, preferably within metal fabrication.
• Knowledge of metal fabrication processes, materials (steel, aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), and equipment.
• Proficiency with ERP and MRP systems, as well as advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.
• Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving skills, with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships with multiple departments.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Relevant professional certifications, such as APICS CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management), are a plus.
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.

• Hybrid work schedule.
• Health insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• PTO.
• Holidays.
• 401(k) with match.