Planner in Chicago

Job Description

Job Description Job Description

Folding Guard is a leading manufacturer and provider of innovative security and safety solutions for a wide range of industries. With a history spanning over 50 years, we are committed to delivering high-quality products that protect people, property, and assets. Our dedication to excellence and our customer-centric approach have made us an industry leader in security enclosures, wire mesh partitions, and other customizable security solutions.

Folding Guard is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Production Planner to join our team. The Production Planner will play a pivotal role in optimizing our manufacturing operations by effectively planning and coordinating production schedules, ensuring timely product delivery, and maintaining efficient inventory levels. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to align production with demand, monitor workflow, and contribute to the continuous improvement of our manufacturing processes.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive production schedules that consider capacity, resources, and customer demand. Coordinate with various departments for smooth production execution.
• Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages or excesses. Collaborate with procurement to optimize inventory turnover and minimize carrying costs.
• Translate demand forecasts and market trends into actionable production plans that balance customer requirements and operational efficiency.
• Efficiently allocate manpower, machinery, and equipment to meet production goals. Solve potential bottlenecks and resource constraints.
• Foster effective cross-departmental communication. Address production and product specification issues with sales, engineering, and quality assurance teams.
• Identify process improvement opportunities. Contribute to Lean and Six Sigma initiatives for enhanced productivity and reduced waste.
• Monitor KPIs like on-time delivery, production cycle time, and inventory accuracy. Present findings with improvement recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Uphold company policies and safety awareness.
• Responsible for designing and implementing production schedules that align with demand, optimizing resource utilization.
• Influence production decisions by interpreting demand forecasts and market trends, guiding production plans accordingly.
• Allocate resources effectively to ensure production targets are met, addressing potential challenges promptly.
• Identify areas for operational enhancement and actively participate in Lean and Six Sigma initiatives.
• Present performance data and insights to management, contributing to strategic decisions for production enhancement.
• Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and regulatory standards, actively promoting a culture of compliance.

• Bachelor’s degree in operations management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Relevant certifications are a plus.
• Five (5) or more years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or related roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to make data‑driven decisions.
• Proficiency in using production planning software and ERP systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross‑functional teams.
• Detail‑oriented mindset with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies is advantageous.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Competitive salary
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Positive and collaborative work environment
• Employee recognition and development programs
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
• Medical:
  Access to our medical insurance plan, which provides coverage for medical expenses and prescriptions.
• Dental:
  Enrollment in our dental insurance plan, helping you maintain your oral health.
• Vision:
  Participation in our vision insurance plan for regular eye exams and eyewear.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan:
  Eligibility to enroll in our 401(k) plan, with a company match of the first 6% of your contributions at a 40% match. This is an excellent opportunity for you to save for your retirement with added support from the company.
• Vacation: will accrue 10 vacation days

Folding Guard is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment based on , , religion, , , , disability, or any other protected status under applicable law. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.