Production Planning Specialist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Hybrid role with flexible planning

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Production Planning Specialist in Bloemfontein, SA. You will develop and maintain detailed production schedules, coordinate with sales, procurement and manufacturing, monitor inventory levels, and drive on-time delivery while minimizing costs.

You will analyze production data, flag risks, and implement corrective actions in a hybrid setup. The role requires at least 3 years in production planning or supply chain within manufacturing, and a related bachelor’s degree.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in production planning, scheduling or supply chain in manufacturing.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and production planning software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain and optimize detailed production schedules based on sales forecasts, demand, and inventory levels.
• Coordinate with sales, procurement and manufacturing to ensure timely availability of raw materials and resources.
• Monitor production progress, identify delays or issues, and implement proactive solutions to keep schedules on track.
• Manage inventory levels for raw materials, WIP and finished goods to meet production needs while minimizing carrying costs.
• Collaborate with the logistics team to ensure efficient dispatch of finished goods per customer requirements.
• Analyze production data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for efficiency and cost reductions.
• Communicate production plans and updates to stakeholders.
• Participate in demand planning meetings and contribute to accurate forecasting.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and production deadlines.
• Assist in implementing and utilizing production planning software and systems.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Hybrid work adaptation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management / Operations Management / Business Administration

Tools

SAP

Oracle

MRP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity within the manufacturing and production sector, is seeking a highly organized and proactive Production Planning Specialist to join their dynamic team in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role is crucial for ensuring the efficient and timely execution of production schedules, aligning resources with demand forecasts. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a keen eye for detail, and a thorough understanding of production planning methodologies. You will be responsible for developing production plans, monitoring inventory levels, and coordinating with various departments to optimize workflow. This hybrid position allows for a flexible working arrangement, blending on-site collaboration with remote strategic planning, ensuring maximum efficiency and effective communication. Your contributions will be vital to maintaining our client's operational excellence in Bloemfontein .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and optimize detailed production schedules based on sales forecasts, demand, and inventory levels.
• Coordinate closely with sales, procurement, and manufacturing teams to ensure timely availability of raw materials and resources.
• Monitor production progress, identify potential delays or issues, and implement proactive solutions to keep schedules on track.
• Manage inventory levels for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods to meet production needs while minimizing carrying costs.
• Collaborate with the logistics team to ensure efficient dispatch of finished goods according to customer requirements.
• Analyze production data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost reductions.
• Communicate production plans and updates effectively to all relevant stakeholders.
• Participate in demand planning meetings and contribute to accurate forecasting.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and production deadlines.
• Assist in the implementation and utilization of production planning software and systems.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or supply chain management within a manufacturing environment.
• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Proficiency in using ERP systems and production planning software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, MRP systems).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, managing both on-site coordination and remote planning tasks.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and inventory management techniques.
• Must be located in or willing to commute to Bloemfontein, Free State .
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• This hybrid role provides a good work-life balance and opportunities for professional development within the manufacturing industry.
• Located in Bloemfontein, Free State , you will be part of a supportive team dedicated to operational excellence and innovation.