Downstream Production Planner

Job Title: Downstream Production Planning / Flow Controller

Location: 100% Onsite
Interview Process: Teams video interview; possible onsite second round

Job Summary

The Downstream Production Planner / Flow Controller is responsible for managing material flow and production execution to support manufacturing operations. This role focuses on MRP exception management, production scheduling, supplier coordination, and inventory optimization to ensure materials are available to meet production demands. The ideal candidate has strong SAP experience, analytical skills, and the ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Production Planning & Execution

• Plan and execute downstream production activities to support daily manufacturing schedules.
• Publish and communicate the daily production plan.
• Monitor production order status, identify barriers, and drive issue resolution.
• Track and report production schedule attainment.
• Coordinate with Production Schedulers and MPS Planners to align priorities.

MRP & Inventory Management

• Review and resolve daily SAP/MRP exception messages (past due, expedite, push out, cancel).
• Ensure timely availability of materials for production.
• Review and adjust MRP planning parameters including safety stock, lot sizes, lead times, rounding values, pallet quantities, and lot sizing procedures.
• Meet inventory targets, including days of inventory.
• Perform quarterly reviews of replenishment strategies (Kanban, ROP, or MRP).

Supplier & Material Flow Management

• Manage material flow between suppliers and the plant.
• Expedite purchase orders and update SAP purchase order due dates as needed.
• Coordinate with suppliers during shortage situations, including prioritization and crisis management.
• Conduct monthly vendor forecast reviews and regular open order reviews with suppliers.

Order Release & Kitting Coordination

• Release and prepare production orders in SAP, separating orders by assemblies as required.
• Convert planned orders to production orders when necessary.
• Review kitting material availability and address material constraints.
• Analyze release simulations to identify missing parts and assess whether production can proceed without them.
• Create missing parts files and coordinate with upstream teams to obtain estimated arrival dates.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or Business (required).

Experience & Skills

• Strong experience with Material Requirements Planning (MRP), production scheduling, and inventory management.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems; SAP experience strongly preferred.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Solid background in materials management principles and methodologies.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally, resolve conflicts, and drive continuous improvement.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment requiring adaptability and independent decision-making.