Planning Specialist, I

Canadian Solar Inc.; Mesquite (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Canadian Solar Inc. is seeking a planning professional to lead strategic planning, production scheduling, and inventory optimization across manufacturing operations. You will forecast demand, allocate resources, and monitor KPIs to drive efficiency and cost containment.

Collaborating with sales, marketing, and other departments, you will implement process improvements, align planning activities with organizational goals, and ensure timely delivery of products across global markets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, operations, or related field.
• Experience in planning, scheduling, or supply chain within manufacturing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with data interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement detailed planning strategies aligned with company goals.
• Create and manage production schedules to ensure timely manufacturing processes.
• Oversee inventory to balance supply and demand and minimize stockouts.
• Forecast demand using data analytics and collaborate with sales and marketing.
• Coordinate resource allocation with supply chain, procurement, and production teams.
• Track KPIs related to planning and operational efficiency for continuous improvement.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align planning activities with objectives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management or related field

CPIM/APICS is a plus

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word)

Planning software

Job description

At Canadian Solar, our vision is to make lives better by bringing electricity powered by the sun to millions of people worldwide. As a leading manufacturer of solar panels, inverters, and energy storage solutions, we've been an industry front-runner since our founding in 2001. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in all parts of our organization as we navigate the complexities of a booming industry.

Throughout Canadian Solar's subsidiaries, e-Storage, Recurrent Energy, MSS and CSI Solar Co., we invest in our employees' growth. Our training programs and promotional opportunities ensure we all can continue to learn. We understand the importance of work-life balance and provide various flexible work options to support our employees' well-being. Join our team to "Make the Difference" by creating a lasting positive impact on the world and the communities where we operate.

Strategic Planning:

Develop and implement detailed planning strategies that align with organizational goals.

Analyze market trends, production capacities, and resource requirements to create effective plans.

Production Scheduling

Create and manage production schedules to ensure timely and efficient manufacturing processes. Monitor progress and adjust schedules as needed to meet changing demands and priorities.

Inventory Management

Oversee inventory levels to balance supply and demand. Develop strategies to optimize inventory turnover, minimize stockouts, and reduce excess inventory.

Demand Forecasting

Utilize data and analytics to forecast demand and support planning decisions. Collaborate with sales, marketing, and other departments to gather input and refine forecasts.

Resource Allocation

Coordinate with supply chain, procurement, and production teams to allocate resources effectively. Ensure that materials, equipment, and personnel are available to meet production and project needs.

Performance Monitoring

Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to planning and operational efficiency. Prepare reports and provide insights to management for continuous improvement.

Process Improvement

Identify opportunities for process enhancements and implement best practices to improve planning accuracy, efficiency, and overall performance.

Collaboration

Work closely with cross-functional teams to align planning activities with organizational objectives. Support project teams in achieving milestones and resolving planning-related issues.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., CPIM, APICS) are a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 1 -3 years of experience in planning, scheduling, or supply chain management, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and develop actionable insights. Proficiency in planning software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).
• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in developing and managing plans.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with team members, stakeholders, and management.
• Organizational Abilities: Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the capability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.