Production Planning Specialist - Manufacturing Efficiency

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a detail-oriented Production Planning Specialist for a well-established automotive component manufacturer in East London. The role focuses on developing schedules, managing MRP, and optimizing resource allocation to meet demand forecasts and delivery commitments.

The ideal candidate will have 2–5 years in production planning, strong analytical skills, and proficiency with SAP APO, Oracle ASCP, and MS Excel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in operations, supply chain, or industrial engineering.
• 2–5 years of production planning or materials management in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of MRP systems and production planning principles.
• Proficiency in planning software (SAP APO, Oracle ASCP) and MS Excel.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed production schedules based on demand forecasts and capacity constraints.
• Manage material requirements planning (MRP) to ensure timely availability of raw materials and components.
• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as necessary to meet targets.
• Collaborate with procurement to place timely orders for necessary materials.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and areas for improvement in efficiency and lead times.
• Coordinate with the inventory team to manage stock levels and minimize waste.
• Communicate production plans and potential issues to relevant stakeholders.
• Support the implementation of lean manufacturing principles on the shop floor.
• Ensure all planning activities align with company quality standards and delivery commitments.

Skills

Analytical skills

Strong communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management / Supply Chain

Tools

SAP APO

Oracle ASCP

MS Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established automotive component manufacturer, is seeking a detail-oriented Production Planning Specialist to join their team in East London . This role is crucial for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the production floor by developing accurate production schedules, managing material requirements, and optimizing resource allocation. You will work closely with production, procurement, and inventory teams to meet demand forecasts and ensure timely delivery of high-quality products. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in planning software, and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in optimizing production efficiency in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed production schedules based on demand forecasts and capacity constraints.
• Manage material requirements planning (MRP) to ensure timely availability of raw materials and components.
• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as necessary to meet targets.
• Collaborate with procurement to place timely orders for necessary materials.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and areas for improvement in efficiency and lead times.
• Coordinate with the inventory team to manage stock levels and minimize waste.
• Communicate production plans and potential issues to relevant stakeholders.
• Support the implementation of lean manufacturing principles on the shop floor.
• Ensure all planning activities align with company quality standards and delivery commitments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or materials management within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of MRP systems and production planning principles.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and experience with planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle ASCP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of the automotive industry is a plus.
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in East London .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Benefits include access to medical aid and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the manufacturing sector are provided.
• This role offers job stability and the chance to make a significant impact on operational efficiency within a respected company in the Eastern Cape.