Remote Production Planning Specialist

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Advanced planning software

Remote team

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Remote Production Planning Specialist to develop detailed production plans, optimize resources, and reduce lead times in a global manufacturing setting. You will forecast demand, manage inventory, and collaborate with cross-functional teams across time zones to ensure on-time delivery.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in production planning, strong analytical skills, and proficiency with APS/ERP tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years in production planning, demand forecasting, or supply chain planning in manufacturing.
• Experience with APS software or ERP systems (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle ASCP).
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage production plans and schedules based on demand forecasts, inventory levels, and capacity.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement, and manufacturing to align targets and timelines.
• Monitor progress and address bottlenecks with proactive solutions.
• Utilize planning software to optimize schedules and resource allocation.
• Forecast demand and manage inventory to ensure material availability and capacity.

Skills

Production planning

Demand forecasting

APS/ERP

Excel

Remote collaboration

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain

Tools

SAP APO

Oracle ASCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding manufacturing organization, is seeking a highly organized and analytical Remote Production Planning Specialist to join their operations team. This fully remote position is ideal for an individual with a strong background in supply chain management and production scheduling, who thrives in a virtual work environment. You will be responsible for developing and executing detailed production plans that optimize resource allocation, minimize lead times, and ensure timely delivery of products to meet customer demand. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, advanced analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams across different time zones. You will play a key role in forecasting, demand planning, and inventory management to support our global manufacturing footprint. The role is designed to be fully remote, offering flexibility and work-life balance while contributing to critical business operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive production plans and schedules based on demand forecasts, inventory levels, and production capacity.
• Collaborate closely with sales, procurement, and manufacturing teams to ensure alignment on production targets and timelines.
• Monitor production progress and identify potential bottlenecks or deviations from the plan, implementing proactive solutions.
• Utilize advanced planning software and tools to optimize production schedules and resource allocation.
• Analyze demand patterns and forecast future needs to ensure adequate material and production capacity.
• Manage inventory levels of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods to support production and minimize holding costs.
• Generate regular reports on production performance, key metrics, and forecast accuracy for management review.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing planning processes and operational efficiency.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination with all stakeholders involved in the production planning process.
• Maintain accurate master data within the planning systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in production planning, demand forecasting, or supply chain planning within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software or ERP systems (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle ASCP).
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory management principles, and supply chain dynamics.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other data analysis tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and a high level of attention to detail.
• Experience working in a fully remote capacity is highly desirable.

Benefits

• This remote role offers a competitive salary and a flexible work arrangement.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and online training programs are provided.
• Access to cutting-edge planning software and digital collaboration tools.
• A supportive virtual team environment that encourages autonomy and initiative.
• The chance to contribute significantly to a growing manufacturing company from the comfort of your home.