Planner/Scheduler

Lapham-Hickey Steel-; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Lapham-Hickey Steel is seeking a Planner/Scheduler to develop and maintain production schedules that align with customer demand and inventory levels. You will collaborate with procurement, production, and logistics to anticipate bottlenecks and ensure on-time delivery.

Using ERP and planning software, you will analyze data, adjust plans for downtime or demand changes, and support continuous improvement initiatives to sustain efficiency and quality across operations.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in production planning or scheduling within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with planning and scheduling software such as AS400 systems or advanced Excel skills.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory management, and supply chain principles.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed production schedules that optimize resource utilization and meet customer delivery requirements.
• Coordinate with procurement and inventory teams to ensure materials are available to support production plans.
• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules proactively to address delays, equipment downtime, or changes in demand.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality assurance, and logistics to align schedules and resolve issues.
• Analyze production data and key performance indicators to identify trends and recommend process improvements.
• Communicate schedule changes and updates effectively to all relevant stakeholders.
• Support the implementation of planning and scheduling software tools and maintain accurate documentation.

Skills

2 years experience in production

Planning software proficiency

Excel skills

Manufacturing processes knowledge

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

AS400 systems

Advanced Excel

Job description

Join Lapham-Hickey Steel – A Tradition of Excellence, Innovation, and Opportunity

Lapham-Hickey Steel is a family-owned, industry-leading steel service center with a legacy of more than 100 years in manufacturing and steel processing. With locations across the U.S., including Illinois, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia, we are committed to delivering high-quality steel products while fostering a culture of growth, teamwork, and innovation.

At Lapham-Hickey, we invest in our people, offering competitive benefits, career development opportunities, and a supportive environment where employees can thrive. Whether you're looking to start or advance your career in manufacturing, engineering, sales, or operations, we provide the tools and resources to help you succeed.

Join us and be part of a company that values integrity, customer commitment, and continuous improvement. Your future in steel starts here!

About The Role

The Planner/Scheduler plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and timely production of goods within a manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing production schedules that align with customer demand, resource availability, and inventory levels. The Planner/Scheduler collaborates closely with procurement, production, and logistics teams to anticipate and resolve potential bottlenecks or delays. By analyzing production data and forecasting needs, this role supports continuous improvement initiatives and helps maintain high levels of operational efficiency. Ultimately, the Planner/Scheduler ensures that manufacturing processes run smoothly, meeting quality standards and delivery commitments to customers.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in production planning or scheduling within a manufacturing environment.


• Proficiency with planning and scheduling software such as AS400 systems or advanced Excel skills.


• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory management, and supply chain principles.


• Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Qualifications

• High School Diploma


• Experience with Slitting Programs as we currently use Asko Edgemaster, IKS, and Carswin.


• Familiarity with advanced planning systems (APS) and demand forecasting tools.


• Previous experience working in a steel service center or a fast-paced manufacturing setting utilizing slitting and cut-to-length processes.


• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams or projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed production schedules that optimize resource utilization and meet customer delivery requirements.


• Coordinate with procurement and inventory teams to ensure materials are available to support production plans.


• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules proactively to address delays, equipment downtime, or changes in demand.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality assurance, and logistics to align schedules and resolve issues.


• Analyze production data and key performance indicators to identify trends and recommend process improvements.


• Communicate schedule changes and updates effectively to all relevant stakeholders.


• Support the implementation of planning and scheduling software tools and maintain accurate documentation.

Skills

The Planner/Scheduler uses analytical skills daily to interpret production data and forecast demand accurately, ensuring schedules are realistic and achievable. Strong communication skills are essential for coordinating with multiple departments and conveying schedule changes clearly and effectively. Proficiency in ERP and scheduling software enables the Planner/Scheduler to create and adjust production plans efficiently, minimizing downtime and resource waste. Problem-solving skills are applied to anticipate potential disruptions and develop contingency plans that maintain production flow. Additionally, organizational skills help manage competing priorities and deadlines, ensuring that all production activities align with overall business objectives.