What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Planner II position at R&L Spring Company?
Production Planner II - R&L Spring Company
Job Summary:
The Production Planner II is responsible for developing, optimizing, and executing production plans across multiple product lines or departments to meet customer demand while balancing capacity, inventory, and efficiency. This role owns key planning parameters, analyzes mid- to long-term capacity, and drives cross-functional alignment to ensure on-time delivery and operational performance. The Planner II plays a critical role in improving planning processes, resolving constraints, and supporting business objectives.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Develop, maintain, and optimize production schedules across multiple departments, product lines, or value streams
- Analyze and balance capacity and demand to support both short-term execution and mid- to long-term planning (0–12 months)
- Own and maintain planning parameters including lead times, safety stock levels, lot sizes, and order policies
- Align production plans with customer demand, forecasts, and service level expectations
- Partner with Customer Service, Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain to establish and manage realistic promise dates
- Identify, analyze, and resolve production constraints, bottlenecks, and scheduling conflicts across functions
- Monitor and improve key metrics such as schedule attainment, on-time delivery (OTIF), inventory levels, and forecast accuracy
- Utilize ERP systems and reporting tools (e.g., Power BI) to perform advanced data analysis and scenario planning
- Lead or support Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) or similar demand/capacity alignment processes
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to planning processes, system accuracy, and operational efficiency
- Serve as a subject matter expert and mentor for Planner I or less experienced team members
- Ensure data integrity within ERP systems, including accurate routings, lead times, and planning inputs
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage complex variables and constraints
- Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel (Power BI or similar tools preferred)
- Ability to translate data into actionable plans and business decisions
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders
- High level of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 3–6 years of production planning, scheduling, or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment
- Experience in high-mix, high-volume manufacturing preferred
- Experience with capacity planning, forecasting, and inventory management strongly preferred
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.
- The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.