Production Planner

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components instruments and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e. light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers employees and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun fast-paced culture.

The Production Planner will be responsible for coordinating and scheduling production activities within the assembly area focused on precision optomechanical devices. This role ensures efficient workflow timely delivery and alignment with quality standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills a deep understanding of manufacturing processes and the ability to collaborate across departments. While this role is located primarily in Newton NJ it may require travel to other Thorlabs locations.

Essential Job Functions include the following but are not limited to:

• Work with a team of production planners to coordinate work for assembly floor while taking direction from Team Lead.

• Manages the manufacturing planning process for finished goods and sub-assemblies

• Coordinate with production management quality control procurement and assembly teams to ensure resource availability and alignment.

• Maintain production planfor the assigned product lines by available capacity
• Issue production orders daily to the production floor based on components and capacity availability
• Analyze and maintain coverage min levels for components sub-assemblies and finished goods.
• Calculate and maintain min production order quantity based on demand and fixture.
• Keep track and maintain production lead time for sub-assemblies and finished goods.
• Supervise and report actual results against production plan.

• Monitor critical shortages high stocks low stocks and zero stock.
• Proactively review component/raw material supply and determine the required push/pull actions resulting from this.

• Work with purchasing to ensure that the critical components and raw materials are delivered on time
• Cover the duties of other Purchaser/planners when needed.

In addition to the essential functions and duties listed above all positions are also responsible for:

• Meeting company standards pertaining to quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis performing all work-related tasks in a manner that is in compliance with all Company policies and procedures.
• Adhering to Company policies procedures and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years in production planning or scheduling within a manufacturing or assembly environment.

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong sense of ownership

• Process oriented
• Experience with complex planning forecasting and product lifecycle programs
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems preferably Dynamics 365F&O and Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently and with little instruction
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience working with up bills of materials and routes

Salary range for this position is $54000 - $62000 depending on experience

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion gender gender identity or expression sexual orientation national origin genetics disability age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical dental and vision insurance company paid life insurance a generous PTO package a 401(k) plan and tuition reimbursement just to name a few..