Junior Production Planner

Job Description

Job Description

Junior Production Planning & Supply Chain Specialist
Location: Lincoln, Rhode Island

Schedule : First shift hours

Pay : $65k-75k (may go up to 85k for the right experience)

We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Production Planning & Supply Chain Specialist to support the planning and execution of our manufacturing operations. This role is primarily focused on production planning, while also supporting purchasing activities during the start-up phase of the plant.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their supply chain career who wants to develop into a Production Planner within an international manufacturing organization. As the plant grows, the position will evolve into a dedicated planning role with increased responsibility.
This is not a highly structured corporate environment. We are building a new operation where initiative, adaptability, and a hands-on approach are essential.

Key Responsibilities
Production Planning (Primary Focus)

• Develop and maintain daily and weekly production schedules based on customer demand, forecasts, inventory levels, and manufacturing capacity.
• Plan material requirements using ERP/MRP tools to ensure uninterrupted production.
• Monitor raw material availability and proactively identify shortages or supply risks.
• Coordinate closely with Production, Purchasing, Warehouse, and Customer Service to align production priorities.
• Update and maintain planning parameters, production orders, and material master data within the ERP system.
• Analyze production performance, inventory levels, and planning accuracy to recommend improvements.
• Support capacity planning and scheduling as production volume and product portfolio expand.
• Maintain accurate planning reports and KPI dashboards.
• Assist in developing standardized planning processes as the new manufacturing facility grows.

Procurement & Material Planning

• Purchase raw materials, indirect materials, and operational supplies required to support production.
• Coordinate with suppliers to ensure materials are delivered on time and according to production schedules.
• Support supplier sourcing, RFQs, and vendor selection activities.
• Monitor supplier performance related to delivery, quality, and responsiveness.
• Expand procurement responsibilities to include packaging materials as manufacturing operations increase.

Logistics & Operations Support

• Coordinate inbound material deliveries with logistics providers.
• Support import/export documentation and customs coordination when required.
• Collaborate with warehouse operations to ensure accurate inventory transactions and material availability.
• Assist in developing efficient supply chain processes for the new manufacturing operation.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in Production Planning, Material Planning, Supply Chain, Procurement, or Manufacturing Operations .
• Manufacturing experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of MRP/ERP planning processes is required.
• Experience with SAP (PP/MM modules) is highly desirable.
• Understanding of inventory management, production scheduling, and material planning concepts.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize multiple activities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Comfortable working in a start-up environment where priorities may change quickly.

Technical Skills
Required

• Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Excel
• • Pivot Tables
  • VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP
  • INDEX/MATCH
  • Basic statistical analysis
  • Data analysis and reporting
• Intermediate computer literacy.
• ERP/MRP experience supporting production planning.

An Intermediate/Advanced Excel assessment will be administered during the selection process.
Preferred

• SAP PP/MM experience.
• Knowledge of production scheduling methodologies.
• Understanding of inventory control and demand planning.
• Familiarity with manufacturing KPIs and reporting.