What does a Manufacturing Planner do?

A Manufacturing Planner is responsible for creating and maintaining production schedules for manufacturing operations. They work closely with production managers, engineers, and other staff to ensure that products are produced on time and meet quality standards.

Manufacturing Planner job duties include:

• Develop and implement production plans that ensure efficient use of resources and meet customer demand
• Coordinate production activities with other departments such as purchasing, quality control, and shipping
• Monitor production to identify issues and bottlenecks and develop corrective actions
• Adjust production plans as needed due to changes in customer demand or material availability
• Estimate production costs and develop strategies to minimize expenses
• Develop manufacturing processes and equipment layouts for new products
• Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and recommend improvements
• Prepare reports on progress of production goals and present to senior management
• Stay up-to-date on latest industry trends and technologies

Manufacturing Planner Job Requirements

A Manufacturing Planner is responsible for the creation and maintenance of production schedules. They work with Production Managers to ensure that materials are available when needed and that production runs smoothly. Manufacturing Planners typically have a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering or a related field. Some employers may require certification from the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). Experience in production planning, inventory management, and manufacturing operations is also helpful.

Manufacturing Planner Skills

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• The ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines
• The ability to pay attention to detail and maintain a high level of accuracy
• The ability to use computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software
• The ability to interpret engineering drawings
• The ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• The ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• The ability to stand for long periods of time
• The ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Related: Top Manufacturing Planner Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Manufacturing Planner

In order to become a Manufacturing Planner, there are a few things that you will need to do. Firstly, you will need to obtain a degree in industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Secondly, you will need to gain experience in manufacturing and production planning. And lastly, you will need to obtain certification from the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

Once you have obtained your degree, you should start applying for jobs in manufacturing and production planning. Many companies will require that you have at least 2-3 years of experience in this field before they will consider you for a position as a Manufacturing Planner. You can gain this experience by working in various positions such as production scheduler, materials planner, or inventory control manager.

Once you have the necessary experience, you can then apply for certification from APICS. To do this, you will need to pass an exam that covers topics such as production planning and control, inventory management, and supply chain management. Once you have passed the exam, you will be officially certified as a Manufacturing Planner.

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