Lead Production Planner

Lead Production PlannerPosition OverviewThe Lead Planner oversees the production planning and inventory control function to ensure on-time delivery, optimal inventory levels, and efficient use of capacity. This role supervises a small buying/planning team, coordinates cross-functionally with production, procurement and suppliers, and drives continuous improvement in planning processes and tools to support Assembly Based Manufacturing and High Mix Low Volume environments.Key ResponsibilitiesLead a small buying/planning team, assigning workloads and monitoring performance to meet delivery and inventory targets.Develop, maintain and execute master production schedules and production plans to meet customer demand and business objectives.Perform Rough-Cut Capacity Planning (RCCP) and detailed capacity planning to align production capability with demand.Coordinate order forecasting and translate forecasts into executable production orders and material requirements.Manage Material Requirements Planning (MRP) processes, including BOM explosions and priority logic, to ensure timely release of orders to manufacturing.Implement and manage inventory control strategies (Kanban, Reorder Points/ROP, VMI) to optimize stock levels and reduce obsolescence.Apply High Mix Low Volume (HMLV) planning techniques to balance complexity, lead times and lot sizes.Monitor and report key planning KPIs (OTD, inventory turns, forecast accuracy, schedule attainment) and drive corrective actions.Collaborate with procurement, engineering and production to resolve capacity constraints, material shortages and schedule disruptions.Liaise with suppliers and manage vendor-managed inventory agreements where applicable.Prepare regular planning reports and present recommendations to operations leadership.QualificationsDemonstrated experience in Planning with 5+ years in manufacturing planning roles and at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead capacity.Required: Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and experience using ERP/MRP systems (eg. SAP, Oracle, or similar).Excellent communication, stakeholder management and team leadership skills.Production scheduling experience and familiarity with Rough-Cut Capacity Planning (RCCP).Certifications such as APICS/CPIM, CSCP or Six Sigma are a plus.BenefitsCompetitive Base Salary Between $90-100k + Bonus PotentialStrong Benefits Package (Medical/Dental/Vision, Retirement Savings Options, etc.)Unlimited Vacation/Paid Time OffWork/Life Balance