Production Control & Materials Specialist / Assistant Manager

Cesna Recruitment; Missouri; On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cesna Recruitment is seeking a Production Control & Materials Specialist to drive daily production scheduling and material tracking, ensuring uninterrupted manufacturing operations and accurate inventory.

You will monitor material levels, update SAP/MRP data, coordinate with suppliers and production personnel, and support on-time deliveries while minimizing discrepancies between system data and physical stock. This role requires hands-on ERP/MRP experience and strong Excel skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• 3–5+ years in Production Control, Material Planning, or Manufacturing Operations (Automotive preferred).
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems; SAP and MES data entry preferred.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and daily production reporting skills.

Responsibilities

• Generate and maintain daily/weekly production schedules based on demand.
• Monitor production output vs. plan and adjust schedules as needed.
• Track material availability to prevent shortages and coordinate with Materials/Purchasing.
• Enter and maintain production orders, material movements, and planning data in ERP/MRP systems.

Skills

Production scheduling

ERP/MRP experience

Excel & reporting

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain / related field

Tools

SAP

MES

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Production Control & Materials Specialist is responsible for executing daily production scheduling and material tracking to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations. This role actively monitors material levels, updates system data, and collaborates with production floor personnel and suppliers to ensure schedules are met and inventory is accurately maintained.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Production Scheduling & Execution

• Generate and maintain daily and weekly production schedules based on customer demand.
• Monitor actual production output against the plan and adjust schedules immediately as needed.
• Communicate daily production priorities and schedule changes directly to the production floor.

Material Tracking & Inventory Control

• Track daily material availability against the production schedule to prevent shortages.
• Coordinate directly with Materials and Purchasing teams regarding potential supplier issues or delayed deliveries.
• Monitor and count WIP and finished goods inventory on the floor, supporting inventory reduction initiatives.

System Data Entry & Maintenance

• Input and maintain accurate production orders, material movements, and planning data in SAP, MES, and ERP/MRP systems.
• Verify production quantities, execute inventory transactions, and complete production confirmations.
• Investigate and resolve daily discrepancies between system data and actual physical inventory/production.

Customer Delivery Support

• Monitor daily customer shipping schedules and delivery requirements.
• Alert the Manager of any potential delivery risks or significant production disruptions.

SKILLS / REQUIREMENTS

• Solid understanding of production scheduling, material handling, and basic inventory control.
• Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems; SAP and MES data entry experience preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and daily production reporting tools.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and communication skills.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• 3 to 5+ years of experience in Production Control, Material Planning, or Manufacturing Operations (Automotive preferred but not required for P1 entry level).