Scheduler

Position Summary

The Scheduler plays a critical role in ensuring our customers receive products on time while supporting efficient, cost-effective manufacturing operations. This role uses our ERP/MRP system (IQMS) to translate customer demand into achievable production schedules while collaborating closely with production, procurement, customer service, and supply chain teams.

Successful schedulers combine strong analytical thinking with proactive communication. They balance customer requirements, machine capacity, inventory levels, tooling availability, and staffing needs to maintain a stable and efficient production flow while supporting the company’s operational goals.

The Scheduler is expected to proactively identify risks to production or delivery and communicate them early so the organization can respond effectively. This role contributes to a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement while supporting Viking Plastics’ commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Production Planning & Scheduling

• Develop and maintain production schedules using the IQMS MRP system to meet customer delivery requirements.
• Analyze machine capacity, production constraints, and material availability to create realistic and achievable schedules.
• Adjust schedules as necessary based on changes in customer demand, operational issues, or supply constraints.
• Enter and maintain work orders within the ERP system.

Schedule Stability

• Maintain schedule stability by minimizing unnecessary schedule changes while still responding appropriately to customer demand and operational issues.
• Evaluate the operational impact of schedule changes, including mold changes, setup time, and labor utilization.
• Communicate schedule changes promptly to production, materials, and customer service teams to maintain alignment.

Production Constraints

• Consider key operational constraints such as tooling availability, mold maintenance requirements, material supply, drying capacity, and secondary operations when developing production schedules.
• Work closely with the Production Manager, Tool Room, and materials team to ensure schedules reflect real operational conditions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with the Production Manager to align production schedules with staffing levels and operational priorities.
• Partner with Customer Service to proactively communicate potential delivery risks and ensure customers are informed in a timely manner.
• Coordinate with the Procurement Specialist and other supply chain team members to support efficient material flow and production continuity.

Inventory & Performance Management

• Work collaboratively with the Procurement Specialist to support company goals for finished goods inventory levels, raw material availability, and overall inventory turnover.
• Monitor inventory levels and planning signals to ensure production schedules align with material availability and customer demand.
• Monitor and report key performance indicators such as on-time delivery, schedule adherence, and inventory performance.
• Identify opportunities to improve inventory flow and reduce excess or obsolete inventory.

Data & System Management

• Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and related ERP data to ensure planning accuracy.
• Maintain data integrity related to scheduling, work orders, and inventory planning within the ERP system.
• Utilize ERP reporting tools to support production planning and operational performance tracking.

Demand Signal Review

• Review customer releases and demand signals for accuracy and significant changes.
• Escalate unusual demand spikes, drops, or inconsistencies to the Director of Operations and Customer Service team for review.
• Support proactive planning when demand changes occur.

External Coordination

• Coordinate outside processing and third-party assembly activities as required to support production schedules.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement improvements to scheduling methods, planning processes, and system utilization.
• Support problem-solving efforts with internal teams and supply base using structured tools such as 8D when applicable.
• Participate in initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, reducing cost, eliminating waste and strengthening operational performance.

Reporting & Administrative Support

• Prepare and provide periodic reports related to scheduling performance, inventory metrics, and operational goals.
• Support strategic initiatives and cost-reduction efforts within the operations and supply chain teams.

Additional Duties

• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of business objectives.

Experience & Skills

• Strong analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Solid mathematical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Experience working in manufacturing environments preferred.
• Minimum of one year of scheduling, planning, or production coordination experience preferred.

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field preferred, but we’ll consider equivalent real-world work experience.
• APICS CPIM certification or pursuit of certification is highly desirable.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (IQMS preferred).
• Familiarity with EDI systems and standard Windows-based business software.

Cultural Expectations

At Viking Plastics, we value employees who:

• Take ownership of their responsibilities and follow through on commitments.
• Communicate proactively and respectfully with teammates and customers.
• Seek continuous improvement and challenge inefficient processes.
• Work collaboratively to solve problems and support team success.
• Maintain integrity, accuracy, and accountability in their work.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person