Production Planner

Location: Hartland, WI 53029

Job Summary

This position evaluates part availability as well as machine and staffing requirements, coordinating with Sales on due dates for customer orders. It maintains the current Kanban or inventory system on the production floor, interacts with Purchasing/Suppliers to release orders for inventory replenishment, and manages excess or obsolete inventory.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage inventory levels (Kanban status, release replenishment orders, maintain Kanban cards, perform cycle counting, etc.).
• Process orders from Sales to cell operators: initiate jobs, verify part availability, distribute color‑coded copies & cut‑sheets to appropriate work boards, and perform e‑packet duties as needed.
• Respond to inquiries regarding delivery dates, changes to existing orders, late shipments, etc.
• Assist the Production Manager in driving consistent inventory‑management practices across the production floor, focusing on streamlining the flow of customer sales orders.
• Coordinate all shop orders and customer orders related to Engineered‑To‑Order (ETO) projects.
• Provide backup support for other Production Planners as needed.
• Participate in continuous‑improvement efforts to enhance the flow of sales orders to the production floor.

Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, and Abilities

• Team player with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and approach tasks with a sense of urgency.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to thoroughness and accuracy.
• Ability to build relationships with a diverse workforce and demonstrate a highly developed sense of understanding.
• Proficient with Microsoft Suite applications.

Required Qualifications

• High school graduate or GED required.
• 3+ years in a manufacturing environment with production control, inventory control, or purchasing experience preferred.
• Experience with Epicor ERP system is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Production/Operations Management.
• APICS training/certification.
• Experience reading blueprints.

About Columbus McKinnon

Columbus McKinnon is a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer, and marketer of intelligent motion solutions that move the world forward and improve lives by efficiently and ergonomically moving, lifting, positioning, and securing materials. Key products include hoists, crane components, precision conveyor systems, rigging tools, light‑rail workstations, and digital power and motion‑control systems. The company serves commercial and industrial applications that require the safety and quality provided by superior design and engineering expertise. Columbus McKinnon is a publicly traded company with nearly 150 years of heritage, and it promotes a diverse, inclusive workforce.