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Sr. Materials Planner

Condux International, Mankato, MN, United States


Sr. Materials Planner

The Senior Materials Planner is responsible for developing, managing, and executing production schedules that align with the Master Production Schedule (MPS), customer demand, and operational capacity. This role ensures production schedules are achievable, materials are available, and risks are clearly identified and communicated.
The Senior Materials Planner serves as a key liaison between Sales, Manufacturing, and Management by providing timely production schedule updates, identifying constraints, and recommending solutions to support on‑time delivery and operational efficiency. This role requires advanced planning expertise, strong analytical skills, and effective cross-functional communication.
Essential Functions

Develop, maintain, and manage detailed production schedules aligned with the approved Master Production Schedule (MPS).
Translate forecasted and firm customer demand into executable production plans based on material availability, capacity, and lead times.
Evaluate production schedules to identify constraints, capacity limitations, and material risks; recommend adjustments as needed.
Coordinate closely with Manufacturing, Scheduling, and Purchasing to ensure production schedules are supported by material plans.
Review and adjust production schedules in response to changes in demand, material availability, engineering changes, or operational disruptions.
Provide regular and ad‑hoc production schedule updates to Sales, Customer Service, and Management, including risks, impacts, and recovery plans.
Communicate schedule changes clearly and proactively to align expectations across cross‑functional stakeholders.
Monitor material availability and critical component status to prevent production delays or shortages.
Maintain accurate planning data within ERP/MRP systems, including BOMs, lead times, lot sizes, safety stock, and yields.
Track and report schedule adherence, material availability, on‑time delivery, and other planning KPIs; recommend corrective actions.
Support Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), Master Scheduling, and other cross‑functional planning processes.
Investigate and resolve schedule or material‑related issues using structured problem‑solving and root‑cause analysis.
Support continuous improvement initiatives to improve planning accuracy, schedule stability, and inventory performance.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance and communicate planned or unplanned absences in accordance with company policy.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with company safety protocols and standards.
Perform special projects and other duties as assigned.
Safety Responsibilities

Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
Comprehend, retain, and comply with established safety programs.
Qualifications

Required
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field; or equivalent relevant experience.
Minimum of five (5) years of materials planning, production planning, or scheduling experience in a manufacturing environment.
Strong working knowledge of Master Production Scheduling (MPS) and MRP logic.
Advanced experience with ERP/MRP systems.
Strong understanding of production planning, inventory management, and capacity planning principles.
Proven ability to analyze data, identify risks, and make informed scheduling decisions.
Effective communication skills with the ability to present clear and concise updates to Sales and Management.
Strong organizational and time‑management skills with attention to detail.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Reliable attendance, punctuality, and timely communication of planned and unplanned absences in accordance with company policy.
Preferred
Experience supporting Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) or Integrated Business Planning (IBP).
Experience in a regulated or ISO-certified manufacturing environment.
APICS / ASCM certification (CPIM, CSCP) or similar credentials.
Experience supporting Lean or continuous improvement initiatives.
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments.
Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and move throughout the facility as required to perform essential duties.
Frequent use of hands and fingers for keyboarding and standard office equipment.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, including listening and speaking.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Safety Equipment

Steel-toed safety shoes and approved eye protection with side shields are required when working in production areas. Hearing protection is required in posted areas in accordance with safety signage and company policy. Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required based on the specific task or work environment.
Employment Statement

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or assign other duties as business needs require. This document does not constitute a contract of employment.

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