Manufacturing Scheduler

Photo-Sonics, Inc. is an international leader in state-of-the art optical tracking systems in Chatsworth and has an immediate opening for Configuration Specialist. We’re seeking a multi-disciplinary candidate who is self-motivated and is able to set and meet goals.

The Manufacturing Scheduler performs a critical role in the planning and execution of production activities across machining, mechanical, electrical, and optical assembly operations within a high-precision defense manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for generating and maintaining detailed daily and weekly production schedule that align with customer requirements, quality standards, and compliance with defense industry regulations.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Develop and manage detailed daily, weekly, and monthly production schedules for multi-discipline manufacturing areas, including CNC machining, electro-mechanical and optical assembly based on customer orders, inventory levels, capacity, and material availability.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field.

• Maintain accurate records of work orders, materials, and schedules in ERP
• Assist in developing capacity plans and long-term production forecasts.
• Coordinate cross-functional activities to ensure timely availability of materials, tooling, personnel, and equipment for scheduled jobs.
• Balance workload across work centers, optimizing machine and labor utilization while minimizing bottlenecks and downtime.
• Adjust and re-prioritize schedules in response to design changes, equipment breakdowns, or expedited defense contract requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, quality, and program management teams to ensure production plans align with project timelines and specifications.
• Maintain production planning data and work orders within the ERP/MRP system.
• Track progress of scheduled jobs and provide daily/weekly updates on schedule adherence, delays, and recovery plans.
• Ensure all scheduling complies with quality management systems (AS9100) and defense compliance requirements (e.g., ITAR, DFARS).
• Participate in production meetings, program reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate with production supervisors to ensure schedules are met and adjust as needed for delays in response to design changes, equipment issues, or staffing changes.
• Monitor production progress and resolve scheduling conflicts or bottlenecks.
• Collaborate with procurement and inventory teams to ensure material availability for scheduled work.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for process improvements.
• Communicate schedules and changes clearly to relevant departments.
• Ensure schedules comply with company goals for on-time delivery, cost, and quality.

Requirements:

Education:

Skills and Experience:

• 3 years of scheduling experience in a complex manufacturing environment, preferably within the defense or aerospace sector.
• Experience coordinating across machine shops and multi-disciplinary assembly lines (mechanical, electrical, optical).

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (Microsoft Dynamics preferred).
• Strong knowledge of BOMs, routings, capacity planning, and work center scheduling.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes for CNC machining, cabling/wiring, mechanical sub-assembly.
• Familiarity with AS9100, ITAR, and other defense-related regulatory compliance.
• Experience and basic proficiency with Microsoft Office are required. Proficiency in Excel is preferred.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication and coordination skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a deadline-driven, high-security environment.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks with accuracy
• Exceptional attention to detail

Physical requirements:

• Position requires ability to lift (15 lbs.), stand, walk for long periods of time.
• Position may require some climbing.