Senior Production Planning Engineer

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Production Planning Engineer for its Paarl-based manufacturing client. You will optimize production schedules, manage resources, and collaborate with production, supply chain, and sales to hit delivery targets.

The role requires a degree in Industrial Engineering or related field, 6+ years in planning, and strong ERP/APS experience (SAP, Oracle). Lean knowledge is a plus; you will drive efficiency and lead continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong proficiency with production planning software (e.g., APS systems) and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and forecasting skills.
• In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, MRP, and capacity planning.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills across departments.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage complex production schedules to meet demand forecasts and client orders.
• Analyze production capacity, material availability, and labor resources to optimize scheduling and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with sales and operations teams to forecast demand accurately and adjust production plans accordingly.
• Identify potential production bottlenecks and implement solutions to mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations.
• Monitor production progress against schedules, identify deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Utilize production planning software and ERP systems to manage and optimize scheduling processes.
• Work with inventory management teams to ensure optimal levels of raw materials and finished goods.
• Prepare regular reports on production planning performance, highlighting key metrics and areas for improvement.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing production efficiency and reducing lead times.
• Ensure adherence to all safety and quality standards within the production planning framework.

Skills

Production planning

Forecasting

MRP/ERP

Capacity planning

Lean manufacturing

APS software

SAP/Oracle

Education

BSc Industrial Engineering

Tools

ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant industrial manufacturer with operations in Paarl, Western Cape , is actively seeking a highly competent Senior Production Planning Engineer. This critical role is responsible for optimizing production schedules, ensuring efficient resource allocation, and maintaining timely delivery of high-quality products. The successful candidate will leverage advanced planning techniques and collaborate closely with production, supply chain, and sales teams to achieve operational targets. This position requires strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of manufacturing workflows.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage complex production schedules to meet demand forecasts and client orders.
• Analyze production capacity, material availability, and labor resources to optimize scheduling and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with sales and operations teams to forecast demand accurately and adjust production plans accordingly.
• Identify potential production bottlenecks and proactively implement solutions to mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations.
• Monitor production progress against schedules, identifying deviations and implementing corrective actions.
• Utilize production planning software and ERP systems to manage and optimize scheduling processes.
• Work with inventory management teams to ensure optimal levels of raw materials and finished goods.
• Prepare regular reports on production planning performance, highlighting key metrics and areas for improvement.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing production efficiency and reducing lead times.
• Ensure adherence to all safety and quality standards within the production planning framework.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong proficiency with production planning software (e.g., APS systems) and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and forecasting skills.
• In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, material requirements planning (MRP), and capacity planning.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to coordinate effectively across different departments.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles is an advantage.
• Attention to detail and a systematic approach to problem-solving.
• A proactive mindset and a commitment to driving operational excellence.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package tailored to the candidate's experience, complemented by performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits include medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development.
• Employees will join a dynamic team in Paarl, Western Cape , contributing to the efficient production of essential goods.