Production Planner I - Assembly

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting-edge research and real-world innovation.

Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, you’ll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast-moving culture.

The Production Planner will be responsible for coordinating and scheduling production activities within the assembly area focused on precision optomechanical devices. This role ensures efficient workflow, timely delivery, and alignment with quality standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a thorough understanding of manufacturing processes, and the ability to collaborate across departments. While this role is located primarily in Newton, NJ, it may require travel to other Thorlabs locations.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Work with a team to coordinate work for assembly floor under the direction of the Team Lead using Dynamics 365 F&O, to manage demand, supply, and production planning.
• Develop and maintain production plans for assigned product lines.
• Schedule assembly of finished goods and sub-assemblies based on available capacity.
• Release production orders to the manufacturing floor based on available components and capacity
• Maintain and update production lead/queue times.
• Monitor inventory levels of raw materials, components, sub-assemblies, and finished goods.
• Maintain planning data, minimum stock levels forecasts, and production parameters.
• Identify shortages, excess inventory, and stock-out risks.
• Determine appropriate production order quantities based on demand and manufacturing constraints
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems, (Dynamics 365 F&O), to manage demand, supply, and production planning and inventory controls and transactions.
• Work closely with purchasers and other team members to expedite critical components
• Cover the duties of other purchaser/planners when needed.

In addition to the essential functions and duties listed above, all positions are also responsible for:

• Meeting company standards pertaining to quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis, performing all work-related tasks in a manner that is compliant with all Company policies and procedures.

• Adhering to Company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Requirements

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years in production planning or scheduling within a manufacturing or assembly environment

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Process oriented

• Experience with complex planning, forecasting, and product lifecycle programs
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems, preferably Dynamics 365F&O and Microsoft Office
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience working with up bills of materials and routes

Salary range for this position is $57,000 - $71,000 depending on experience

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Benefits

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.