Production Planner – Manufacturing

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Production Planner to join a well-established Chicago-based manufacturing company specializing in engineered components for commercial building systems. In this role, you will own production scheduling and planning activities to ensure efficient manufacturing operations, optimal resource utilization, and on-time delivery to customers.

This is a hands-on planning role requiring strong experience in MRP systems, production scheduling, capacity planning, and cross-functional coordination within a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain master production schedules aligned with customer demand and capacity constraints
• Execute MRP-based planning, ensuring accurate conversion of demand into production orders
• Coordinate with procurement, engineering, manufacturing, and sales to ensure seamless production flow
• Monitor production performance metrics and drive corrective actions and process improvements
• Identify and resolve capacity bottlenecks and recommend production or outsourcing solutions
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of all production orders and schedules
• Support demand forecasting and adjust production plans based on sales inputs
• Participate in production planning meetings to resolve scheduling conflicts and maintain operational alignment
• Continuously analyze production data to improve efficiency, lead times, and output quality

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience as a Production Planner or similar role in manufacturing
• Strong hands-on experience with MRP systems, production planning, and supply chain principles
• Proven ability in production scheduling, capacity planning, and demand forecasting
• Experience coordinating across multiple departments (manufacturing, procurement, engineering, sales)
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel required)
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

• APICS certification (CSCP/CPIM) a plus
• Experience in industrial manufacturing, OEM, or engineered products environments

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Stable work history with at least 2–3 years in recent roles
• Demonstrated success in improving production efficiency, schedule adherence, or cost optimization
• Strong communicator comfortable working across plant operations and corporate teams

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• PTO (Paid Time Off)
• Short-term disability coverage
• AFLAC supplemental benefits

About the Company

Our client is a long-established Chicago manufacturer with over 60 years of experience producing engineered solutions for commercial building systems, serving both national and international markets.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• PTO (Paid Time Off)
• Short-term disability coverage
• AFLAC supplemental benefits