Production Planner

Job Description Production Planner (Bilingual: Japanese / English Preferred)Role SummarySeeking a detail-oriented Production Planner to coordinate production schedules and support Make-to-Stock (MTS) operations. The role focuses on balancing demand, capacity, and inventory to ensure efficient production, on-time delivery, and strong cross-functional communication.Key ResponsibilitiesReview sales orders and forecasts to prioritize production based on delivery timelines, material availability, and capacityPlan and schedule daily production activities and product trialsMaintain appropriate safety stock levels to meet customer and operational needsMonitor demand, supply constraints, and production status to identify scheduling risksCollaborate with Purchasing to track material availability through MRP and update forecastsResolve issues related to materials, manpower, machinery, or planning affecting delivery timelinesCommunicate order status with Sales, Customer Service, Procurement, Production, Warehouse, and Shipping teamsSupport continuous improvement initiatives in production and engineering processesPrepare production status reports and planning metricsParticipate in daily cross-functional production planning meetingsPerform additional duties as assignedQualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience5+ years of manufacturing experience; production planning experience preferredExperience with MRP/ERP systems (JD Edwards preferred)Bilingual in Japanese and English preferredSkills & CompetenciesStrong organizational and time-management skillsExcellent communication and interpersonal abilitiesAbility to work independently and manage pressure in fast-paced environmentsSolid knowledge of manufacturing processes, inventory planning, and supply chain operationsStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesClose attention to detail and commitment to quality and safetyAdaptability to changing priorities and production schedulesTechnical SkillsProficiency in Microsoft 365Experience with JD Edwards or similar MRP/ERP systemsPreferred CertificationAPICS certificationWork EnvironmentCombination of office and manufacturing settingsRegular computer work with occasional walking and reachingAbility to lift up to 25 lbs occasionallyThe manufacturing environment may include both temperature-controlled and non-controlled areas.