Fiber Planning and Utilization Analyst

About the CompanyAFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $2B in revenue, and employ approximately 12,000 associates worldwide. At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity.What We OfferFlexible time off policy401K Company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programsExcellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy optionsOpportunities for career advance with an industry leading company!Job SummaryThe Fiber Utilization Planning Analyst is responsible for optimizing fiber consumption across the Cable manufacturing network through data-driven planning, analysis, and cross-functional coordination. This role develops and governs the fiber conversion strategy to maximize raw material yield, reduce scrap, and maintain optimal inventory levels.This position operates as an individual contributor with strong analytical and decision-making capability, influencing Manufacturing, Supply Chain, IT, and Commercial teams to align execution to an optimized fiber consumption plan. The role owns the planning strategy, while execution is performed by operations and the Fiber Department.Key ResponsibilitiesFiber Utilization & Conversion OptimizationDevelop and maintain fiber consumption strategies that maximize conversion efficiency from raw material to finished goodsAnalyze fiber yield performance, identifying loss drivers and implementing corrective action plans to improve conversion ratesOptimize the systematic utilization of short fiber lengths to minimize scrap and increase usable outputDefine and track key performance metrics related to fiber utilization, scrap, and yieldPlanning & Inventory ControlEstablish fiber consumption plans aligned with production schedules, demand signals, and inventory targetsOwn fiber inventory strategy, ensuring balance between availability, working capital, and obsolescence riskMaintain governance over inventory accuracy, controls, and planning assumptionsPartner with Supply Chain to align purchasing and stocking strategies with optimized consumption plansData Analysis & Decision SupportUtilize statistical and analytical methods to measure performance, identify trends, and recommend improvementsDevelop models and scenarios to evaluate trade-offs across scrap, efficiency, and inventory positioningProvide actionable recommendations to leadership that align operational decisions with financial and utilization goalsCross-Functional Alignment & InfluenceCollaborate with Manufacturing to ensure execution aligns with planned fiber consumption strategiesPartner with Commercial teams to understand product mix impacts on fiber utilization and recommend alignment opportunitiesWork with IT and systems teams to enhance planning tools, data visibility, and reporting capabilitiesDrive continuous improvement initiatives across functions to improve fiber planning processesS&OP / IBP IntegrationProvide fiber utilization inputs and constraints into capacity planning and S&OP processesSupport scenario planning by evaluating the fiber implications of demand and production changesEnsure alignment between fiber plans and broader operational and financial objectivesPersonal QualitiesResults-oriented problem solver with strong analytical rigor and attention to detailSelf-starter capable of operating independently while influencing without authorityStrong communicator who can translate complex data into clear, actionable insightsComfortable working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environmentDemonstrates humble confidence and a commitment to continuous improvementQualificationsBachelor’s degree in engineering, Supply Chain, or related fieldStrong analytical capability with experience in data analysis, modeling, and process improvementPractical understanding of inventory management processes, controls, and accuracy metrics3+ years of manufacturing experience with working knowledge of production flowExperience collaborating across Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Commercial teamsExperience with ERP systems (Oracle R12 or similar manufacturing modules)Knowledge of Lean / Six Sigma methodologiesPrior experience in planning, supply chain, or continuous improvement role preferredAPICS or similar supply chain certification preferredExperience in cable, wire, or similar manufacturing environments preferredWorking ConditionsOffice-based role with regular interaction on the production floorOccasional support outside standard hoursJob SummaryRequisition Number: FIBER009001Job Category: Logistics - Supply Chain Plan \& OpsSchedule: Full-Time