Planner Scheduler

Planner Scheduler

The Planner Scheduler is responsible for planning and scheduling production, supporting new product development, and managing inventory control to meet customer demand and planned inventory targets. This role ensures the effective optimization and operation of the ERP system, as well as the document control system, including records processes, retention, and control. The Planner Scheduler helps drive a culture of mutual trust and respect, teamwork, accountability, and customer satisfaction while managing the performance, adequacy, and continuous improvement of the Business Management System.

Responsibilities

• Maintain daily production planning and scheduling to ensure on-time delivery and efficient use of manufacturing resources.
• Manage inventory control activities to align stock levels with customer demand and planned inventory requirements.
• Oversee and participate in the release, creation, adjustment, and closure of job orders to support production needs.
• Analyze inventory levels, production plans and schedules, and capacity requirements, and take proactive action to meet current and future business needs.
• Work cross-functionally with teams across the business to identify issues and opportunities, remove barriers, and improve planning and scheduling processes.
• Serve as the primary point of accountability for all Sub Op documentation and communication with Procurement.
• Act as the internal ERP systems liaison, coordinating with employees, the external software provider, and external IT support to ensure system effectiveness and reliability.
• Ensure optimization and smooth operation of the ERP system in support of manufacturing planning, scheduling, and inventory control.
• Support and participate in continuous improvement projects focused on manufacturing planning, lean principles, and business processes.
• Lead document and records control processes, including systems management, training, and adherence to retention and control requirements.
• Support new product development by aligning production schedules, materials availability, and inventory plans with project timelines.
• Contribute to managing and improving the Business Management System to support quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated experience in manufacturing planning and scheduling, with strong understanding of lean principles and continuous improvement.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing capabilities and processes, with the ability to read and interpret bills of materials and routings.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence, motivate, and collaborate effectively across teams.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to listen effectively, communicate clearly, and maintain positive working relationships.
• Analytical problem-solving skills and strong conceptual thinking abilities to interpret data and drive decisions.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• High attention to detail, reliability, and a cooperative approach to working both independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and experience using them for production planning, scheduling, and inventory management.
• Experience with planner, supply chain, production planning, production scheduling, and inventory management functions.
• 3+ years of experience in purchasing, materials management, or a related field.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business or a related field is preferred.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems is highly beneficial.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes for metal fabrication, powder coating, and assembly is preferred.
• Experience working within an ISO 9001 environment is preferred.
• Familiarity with supply chain principles and best practices in production planning and inventory control.
• Experience participating in or leading continuous improvement initiatives in a manufacturing setting.

Work Environment

This role operates in a manufacturing environment that relies on ERP technology and integrated business systems to manage production planning, scheduling, and inventory control. The Planner Scheduler works closely with production, procurement, and cross-functional teams, as well as external software and IT providers, to ensure systems run smoothly and support operational needs. The position typically follows standard business hours, with flexibility as needed to support production schedules and project deadlines.

The environment emphasizes teamwork, mutual trust and respect, accountability, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Owatonna, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $65000.00 - $85000.00/yr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to…