Program Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

About Folding Guard:

Folding Guard is a leading manufacturer and provider of innovative security and safety solutions for a wide range of industries. With a history spanning over 50 years, we are committed to delivering high-quality products that protect people, property, and assets. Our dedication to excellence and our customer-centric approach have made us an industry leader in security enclosures, wire mesh partitions, and other customizable security solutions.

Position Overview:

Folding Guard is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Production Planner to join our team. The Production Planner will play a pivotal role in optimizing our manufacturing operations by effectively planning and coordinating production schedules, ensuring timely product delivery, and maintaining efficient inventory levels. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to align production with demand, monitor workflow, and contribute to the continuous improvement of our manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain comprehensive production schedules that consider capacity, resources, and customer demand. Coordinate with various departments for smooth production execution.
• Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages or excesses. Collaborate with procurement to optimize inventory turnover and minimize carrying costs.
• Translate demand forecasts and market trends into actionable production plans that balance customer requirements and operational efficiency.
• Efficiently allocate manpower, machinery, and equipment to meet production goals. Solve potential bottlenecks and resource constraints.
• Foster effective cross-departmental communication. Address production and product specification issues with sales, engineering, and quality assurance teams.
• Identify process improvement opportunities. Contribute to Lean and Six Sigma initiatives for enhanced productivity and reduced waste.
• Monitor KPIs like on-time delivery, production cycle time, and inventory accuracy. Present findings with improvement recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Uphold company policies and safety awareness.
• Responsible for designing and implementing production schedules that align with demand, optimizing resource utilization.
• Influence production decisions by interpreting demand forecasts and market trends, guiding production plans accordingly.
• Allocate resources effectively to ensure production targets are met, addressing potential challenges promptly.
• Identify areas for operational enhancement and actively participate in Lean and Six Sigma initiatives.
• Present performance data and insights to management, contributing to strategic decisions for production enhancement.
• Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and regulatory standards, actively promoting a culture of compliance.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in operations management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Relevant certifications are a plus.
• Five (5) or more years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or related roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Proficiency in using production planning software and ERP systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Detail-oriented mindset with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies is advantageous.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Positive and collaborative work environment
• Employee recognition and development programs
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  1. Medical: Access to our medical insurance plan, which provides coverage for medical expenses and prescriptions.
  2. Dental: Enrollment in our dental insurance plan, helping you maintain your oral health.
  3. Vision: Participation in our vision insurance plan for regular eye exams and eyewear.
  4. 401(k) Retirement Plan: Eligibility to enroll in our 401(k) plan, with a company match of the first 6% of your contributions at a 40% match. This is an excellent opportunity for you to save for your retirement with added support from the company.
  5. Vacation: will accrue 10 vacation days

Additional Information:

Folding Guard is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Visa Sponsorship Disclaimer:

Folding Guard regrets that, at this time, we are unable to sponsor work visas or provide immigration assistance for employment. All candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States of America without requiring sponsorship. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.

Executive Search and Staffing Agencies

Folding Guard expressly does not accept unsolicited resumes from any agencies. Any unsolicited resumes received will be considered property of Folding Guard, with no obligation for a referral fee. This applies to resumes submitted to any Folding Guard employees, including Hiring Managers, without prior engagement with our Human Resources Department. Additionally, agencies are requested not to contact the Human Resources Department regarding this policy or for inquiries about this role. Agencies are advised to refrain from sending unsolicited resumes and acknowledge that any submission will be deemed acceptance of these terms.