Production Planner / Inventory Control Manager

About the Organization Palmer Wahl Instruments, Inc. is a customer-centered company, and we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. Our motto is "Beyond the Scale" - and we seek to provide service to reflect that goal. We offer support from our factory in Asheville, NC USA, and our staff located around the world. Description Position SummaryThe Production Planner / Inventory Control Manager is responsible for ensuring that production schedules are efficiently planned and executed to meet customer demand while optimizing inventory levels. This role involves coordinating with various departments, managing materials, and overseeing inventory control processes to ensure the seamless flow of goods through the production cycle. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, excellent organizational abilities, and a deep understanding of production processes and inventory management.Key ResponsibilitiesProduction Planning: Generate work orders based on inventory levels and customer orders, both manually and from Engineering Masters, and release to the appropriate department. Coordinate with the procurement team to ensure timely delivery of raw materials. Adjust production schedules in response to changes in demand, resource availability, or production issues. Collaborate with the production team to ensure that manufacturing processes align with production schedules. Monitor production performance against the plan and implement corrective actions as needed.Inventory Control: Manage inventory levels to ensure sufficient supply of raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods while minimizing excess stock. Maintain inventory in ERP system to ensure accurate stock records and visibility. Conduct regular inventory audits and reconcile discrepancies between physical counts and system records. Implement and oversee inventory control procedures to prevent stockouts, overstocking, and inventory obsolescence. Collaborate with the procurement team to manage supplier relationships and optimize inventory replenishment strategies.Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze production data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for process improvements. Prepare and present regular reports on production performance, inventory levels, and key metrics to senior management. Utilize forecasting tools and techniques to predict future inventory needs based on sales forecasts and production plans.Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for process optimization in both production planning and inventory control. Lead and participate in cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives. Implement best practices in production planning and inventory management, leveraging technology and automation where possible.Team Leadership: Mentor a team of Supervisors, providing guidance, training, and support. Foster a collaborative and results-driven work environment. Set performance goals and conduct regular performance reviews for team members.Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. Experience: [3 ] years of experience in production planning, inventory management, or a similar role within a manufacturing environment. Skills: Proficiency in ERP systems and inventory management software, Infor Visual ERP system preferred. Experience with Infor Visual ERP system preferred. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Excellent organizational and multitasking skills. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively across departments. Preferred Qualifications: APICS certification (e.g., CPIM or CSCP). Experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies. Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with data analysis tools.Competitive wages and benefits#LI-OnsiteFull-Time/Part-Time Full-Time Location Asheville EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. This position is currently accepting applications.