Senior Production Planner
About the Role
Saab's Autonomous and Undersea Systems division in Rhode Island is seeking a self-motivated and enthusiastic Senior Production Planner. This role is critical to ensuring efficient supply chain operations through the development, maintenance, and execution of detailed production schedules. The Senior Production Planner will coordinate production plans to align with delivery and manufacturing requirements while considering material availability, capacity constraints, lead times, and on-time delivery objectives. The individual in this role will initially be based at the Cranston facility but must have the ability to work from either the Cranston or Bristol facilities as needed.
Responsibilities
- Develop, review, and maintain the master production schedules based on sales forecasts, inventory levels, customer orders, and manufacturing capacity.
- Collaborate with procurement, warehouse, quality, and production teams to ensure materials and resources are available to meet production targets.
- Analyze demand forecasts and historical data to proactively adjust production plans.
- Monitor work-in-progress and finished goods inventory to optimize flow and reduce excess inventory.
- Lead daily and weekly planning meetings to communicate schedules, resolve constraints, and address production issues.
- Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, recommend solutions, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate with the supply chain team to manage changes in customer demand and prioritize orders accordingly.
- Ensure production plans comply with quality standards, safety regulations, and company policies.
- Generate and maintain accurate reports and KPIs related to schedule adherence, production efficiency, and inventory status.
- Support new product introductions and engineering changes through effective planning and communication.
- Mentor junior planners and contribute to process improvements within the planning function.
- Occasional domestic travel (approximately 5-10% annually) as needed to support business objectives.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business or a related discipline with 5+ years of production planning experience in a manufacturing environment, or a Master's degree with 3+ years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems, preferably Oracle.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- High attention to detail and strong organizational abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
- Defense and aerospace industry experience.
Citizenship Requirements
Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Compensation
$89,000 - $111,200. The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.
Benefits
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
- Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays
- 401(k) with employer contributions
- Tuition assistance and student loan assistance
- Wellness and employee assistance resources
- Employee stock purchase opportunities
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage
About Saab
Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations. Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person's needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work.