Strategic Print Production Planner - Packaging & Finishing

The Planner determines how a job will run—selecting press, sheet/web size, imposition/layout, and finishing method—to achieve the lowest total cost while meeting quality and delivery requirements. The Planner builds efficient impositions/layouts, validates material yields, and ensures each job is production ready for Scheduling and Manufacturing. Responsibilities Review estimates/quotes, specs, and artwork to confirm the most cost‑effective run method (press/format, colors, sides, coatings, versions). Determine make‑ready strategy and plan for changeovers, versioning, and gang/combination runs when appropriate. Validate run rates, waste, and spoilage targets against historical and plant standards. Lead and/or contribute during any production meeting or planning meeting. Create/approve impositions and layouts that optimize yield and throughput (signatures, step-and-repeat, nesting, gang runs). Define press sheet/web size, orientation, grain direction, bleeds, gutters, color bars, and control targets. Plan die layouts and folding schemes; confirm die availability or request new tooling. Ensure layouts meet finishing constraints (folding sequences, pocket orientation, trim allowances, glue flaps, pharma N‑up limits). Select the appropriate press/printing process (offset, flexo, digital) based on cost, quality, substrate, and volume. Define bindery/finishing routings (cut, fold, stitch, perf, score, glue, pharma fold, handwork) and WIP handling. Confirm regulatory/quality requirements for pharma/medical packaging (GMP documentation, line clearance, traceability, insert/outsert limits) where applicable. Specify substrates, calipers, coatings, and inks aligned to performance and compliance requirements. Partner with the Scheduler to align plan windows and constraints; support release readiness (art, dies, materials). Other duties as assigned. Qualifications High School Diploma or GED required. Strong knowledge of printing processes (offset/digital/flexo), press sheet/web optimization, grain direction, and bindery operations (cutting, folding, stitching, gluing). Ability to read CAD/die files, folding dummies, and technical drawings; familiarity with die libraries and tooling lead times. Proficient in ERP/MIS for BOMs and routings; strong Excel skills for yield and cost checks. High attention to detail, data accuracy, and practical problem‑solving. Proven ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Established skills in accuracy, organization, meeting deadlines and working in a high-volume environment. Demonstrated ability to support all other departments within the company. #J-18808-Ljbffr RLG Healthcare