Production Planning Manager (Aerospace)

Production Planning Manager

Howmet Fastening Systems is seeking a Production Planning Manager for our Carson, CA location. The Production Planning & Scheduling Manager leads end-to-end planning for complex, high-mix manufacturing programs. They create and maintain the master production schedule, drive the SIOP process, and ensure all prerequisites are cleared before releasing builds to the floor. The role requires strong ERP expertise, analytical skills, and proven leadership in transforming planning functions. The manager works cross-functionally with Sales, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations to deliver on-demand, high-quality products while continuously improving planning efficiency and schedule reliability.

Key Responsibilities:

• SIOP & Master Scheduling: Align backlog, demand forecasts, capacity, materials, and delivery commitments. Run scenario analyses, obtain leadership approval for major trade-offs, and maintain a single integrated plan.
• Clear-to-Build & Production Control: Ensure all prerequisites (config approvals, BOMs, tooling, labor, quality) are met before releasing schedules to the floor. Escalate exceptions and manage change control.
• ERP & Data Management: Set planning data standards, validate BOMs, routings, and lead times.
• Analytics & Risk: Identify bottlenecks, forecast risks, and provide early warning to management. Run weekly performance reviews (planned vs. actual, delivery risks).
• Continuous Improvement & Leadership: Design standard work, meeting cadences, and escalation rules. Drive cross-functional adoption and measurable improvements in readiness and schedule reliability.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Operations Management, Engineering, and/or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in materials planning in an aerospace or precision metal manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 1 years of experience leading a team of direct reports.
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Deep knowledge of SAP, Oracle, QAD, or similar ERP; advanced Excel (pivot tables, VBA).
• High-volume, high-mix, engineered-to-order environments; aerospace or heavy-vehicle or comparable engineered products.
• Proven ability to build/transform planning functions, secure cross-functional adoption, and deliver measurable improvements.
• Strong problem-solving, data-driven decision making, and risk assessment.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills across all levels.

Preferred Qualifications:

• APICS certification (CPIM/CSCP)
• Experience in automotive, aerospace, or related high volume manufacturing environment
• ERP or MRP transformation background
• Project-management experience in production planning or supply chain operations.

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. The salary range for this position is $105,000 to $147,500.

Howmet Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package to support the health, financial well-being, and professional growth of our employees. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits coverage, including FSA and HSA account options
• Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans offering employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution
• Paid holidays and vacation time (eligibility, accrual, and usage are discretionary and governed by applicable policies)
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage plans
• Optional coverage plans for auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance
• Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Our Story:

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

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About the Team

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California. We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we're the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.

Consolidated Aerospace Manufacturing