Capacity Planner

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

The Capacity Planner 3 is a key role within the Supply Chain organization, responsible for establishing and controlling production plans to support the Master Production Schedule while ensuring alignment between demand, capacity, materials, and inventory.

This role collaborates cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Engineering, Marketing, and Supply Chain teams to optimize labor and material utilization, manage supply and demand balance, and maintain target service levels across the global supply chain.

The position requires strong organizational and analytical skills, with the ability to balance short-term priorities while supporting longer-term capacity planning and business objectives. Key objectives include achieving and improving customer service levels, optimizing inventory, and proactively identifying and mitigating capacity and supply risks.

What will you be doing?

Production & Capacity Planning

• Establish and maintain production plans to support the Master Production Schedule (MPS)

• Perform finite capacity scheduling and analyze constraints to ensure optimal production flow

• Develop and maintain capacity plans aligned with forecasted demand and production capabilities

• Execute replenishment orders and adjust plans based on MRP and schedule changes

• Monitor work-in-progress (WIP) queues and production feedback; take corrective action as needed

• Maintain and communicate production priorities and status to shop floor and master planners

• Proactively identify and escalate product and material availability risks

• Ensure product availability to support customer order fulfillment

Materials & System Planning

• Maintain and ensure accuracy of master data for assigned product lines

• Update and revise system planning parameters in SAP to support future requirements

• Maintain communication with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials

• Manage supplier delivery schedules within SAP and support monthly forecast communication

Inventory Management

• Monitor inventory levels, discrepancies, and non-conforming materials; take corrective action

• Maintain timely resolution and rework of returned goods

• Manage hold notices, recalls, and inventory-related compliance activities

• Support inventory optimization, including safety stock levels and reduction initiatives

• Track and support inventory performance metrics and reporting

Project Management & Continuous Improvement

• Participate in New Product Introduction (NPI) and product launch activities

• Support cross-functional improvement initiatives (e.g., Kaizen, cost reduction, lead time improvements)

• Assist in the development and implementation of production and inventory control policies

• Support Engineering Change Requests (ECR) and initiate required system or planning updates

• Complete special projects and assignments as required

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Partner with Customer Service, Sales, and Product Management to support business and product strategy

• Maintain strong communication with Manufacturing to confirm production and shipping schedules

• Monitor open production orders to ensure on-time delivery to customers

What will you need to be successful?

• Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field

• 5+ years of relevant experience in production planning, capacity planning, or supply chain operations

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Strong interpersonal and communication (written and verbal) skills

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and respond quickly to changing priorities

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel

• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems preferred

• APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM) preferred or in progress

You Unlimited.

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

• Inclusion and Belonging- Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (

• Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement

• Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day

• Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program

• Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship

• Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more!

Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

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