Master Planner / Scheduler

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Master Planner / Scheduler is responsible for high-level production planning, scheduling, and forecasting to ensure efficient manufacturing operations and on-time delivery. This role balances workloads, aligns production capacity with demand, and drives efficiency through ERP systems. The ideal candidate will proactively identify and resolve scheduling inefficiencies, troubleshoot planning errors, and support operational goals through data-driven decision-making.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and maintain the master production schedule to align with demand forecasts and operational capacity.
• Utilize ERP systems to manage production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Analyze sales forecasts, historical trends, and order patterns to improve scheduling accuracy.
• Level production workloads across work centers to optimize efficiency and minimize bottlenecks.
• Identify and resolve scheduling conflicts, material shortages, and capacity constraints.
• Troubleshoot reservation errors, system discrepancies, and planning issues within the ERP system.
• Implement root cause analysis to prevent recurring scheduling and production issues.
• Support new product introductions by integrating them into production schedules.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to ensure schedule feasibility.
• Generate reports and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to schedule adherence and production efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance scheduling processes and manufacturing flow.
• Provide input on long-term capacity planning and resource requirements.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma required; additional education in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in production planning, scheduling, or manufacturing operations.
• Strong proficiency in ERP systems; experience with NAV is preferred.
• Experience in both high-volume and low-volume manufacturing environments.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong understanding of capacity planning, forecasting, and workload balancing.
• Experience working with BOMs, routings, and work center management.
• Ability to analyze data, identify discrepancies, and implement corrective actions.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to optimize scheduling processes.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills across multiple departments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office or equivalent software.
• Proven ability to drive process improvements in scheduling and planning.
• Valid Michigan driver’s license required.