The Inventory & Production Planner plays a critical, hands‑on role in maintaining accurate inventory levels and ensuring efficient production scheduling within a feed manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for cycle counting, ingredient management, and close collaboration with production, procurement, FSQR, Finance, and Customer Service teams. The role requires a strong presence on the plant floor, attention to detail, and the ability to align inventory accuracy with production planning needs.
Key Responsibilities
Inventory Management
- Perform daily, weekly, and monthly cycle counts of raw materials, finished goods, and packaging supplies
- Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies, including root‑cause analysis and corrective actions
- Maintain accurate inventory records in ERP or inventory management systems
- Monitor ingredient usage, spoilage, and shrinkage; ensure proper stock rotation (FIFO/FEFO)
- Coordinate and conduct physical inventory counts and audits
- Work closely with receiving and warehouse teams to verify incoming and outgoing materials
- Ensure proper labeling, storage, and handling of feed ingredients in compliance with safety and quality standards
Production Planning & Scheduling
- Develop and maintain daily and weekly production schedules based on demand forecasts, inventory levels, and plant capacity
- Adjust production plans in real time to accommodate changes in demand, equipment availability, or material shortages
- Collaborate with procurement to ensure timely availability of ingredients and supplies
- Communicate production schedules clearly to plant operators and supervisors
- Track production performance and provide reporting on schedule adherence and efficiency
Compliance & Continuous Improvement
- Partner with FSQR to ensure ingredient traceability and compliance with regulatory requirements
- Support continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory accuracy and production efficiency
Financial Support
- Support Finance in annual budget process, specifically in setting COGS and inventory targets
Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, or related field preferred
- Experience: 2+ years of experience in inventory control, warehouse operations, or production planning; manufacturing or agriculture/feed industry preferred
- Knowledge: Strong understanding of inventory management principles and production scheduling
- Technical Skills: Experience with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel
Preferred Qualifications
- Ability to work in a hands‑on, physically active plant environment
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills
- Effective communication and teamwork abilities
- Capable of working on the plant floor in varying temperatures, dust, and noise conditions
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks such as climbing, bending, and standing for extended periods
- Ability to wear required PPE while on the floor or required areas (hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, steel‑toed boots at a minimum)