A Production Planner serves a critical role in streamlining and coordinating production operations to ensure on-time product delivery while maximizing efficiency and controlling costs. This position involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams—including manufacturing, procurement, and logistics—to forecast demand, develop and manage production schedules, monitor inventory levels, and implement strategic initiatives that support production goals.

Key Accountabilities

• Create and maintain the production schedule.  Determine run quantities and sequencing to insure the most efficient and logical way to run product.
• Review and monitor all processes that pertain to daily planning and production.
• Evaluate and monitor inventory levels to meet demand forecasts and corporate financial objectives.
• Daily review of all inventories, manage cycle counting of packaging and ingredients materials, and take part in physical inventory counts as needed.
• Utilize Material Requirements Planning (MRP) to schedule and initiate purchase orders, ensuring timely follow-up to support production planning requirements.
• Liaise with suppliers to schedule, monitor, and oversee the timely receipt and delivery of materials.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to sage operating procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Participate in cross-departmental operational meetings across Rochester-based facilities.
• Provide coverage for the Planning and Customer Service Manager during periods of absences.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support team operations and organizational goals.

Knowledge, Skills, and Requirements

• 1-3 years’ experience in comparable role
• Demonstrates a collaborative mindset in daily tasks and problem-solving initiatives.
• Associate’s degree required, bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Proficient in computer applications, with strong expertise in Microsoft excel.
• Experience with SAP is preferred.
• Exhibits strong analytical, auditing, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and supplier relationship management skills
• Excellent command of the English language, with excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Work Environment

• Occasionally required to lift or move items weighing up to 20 pounds
• Role involves a blend of office-based tasks and regular walking throughout production facilities
• Utilizes a computer keyboard and monitor for more than 75% of the workday
• Requires fine motor skills and finger dexterity for frequent typing and data entry
• Must be able to remain seated for extended periods
• Compliance with all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols is mandatory when accessing the production floor

Compensation

Compensation for this position is based on skills and experience; salary range from $59,000 – $74,000 annually.