Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
The Capacity Planner 3 is a key role within the Supply Chain organization, responsible for establishing and controlling production plans to support the Master Production Schedule while ensuring alignment between demand, capacity, materials, and inventory.
This role collaborates cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Engineering, Marketing, and Supply Chain teams to optimize labor and material utilization, manage supply and demand balance, and maintain target service levels across the global supply chain.
The position requires strong organizational and analytical skills, with the ability to balance short-term priorities while supporting longer-term capacity planning and business objectives. Key objectives include achieving and improving customer service levels, optimizing inventory, and proactively identifying and mitigating capacity and supply risks.
What will you be doing?
Production & Capacity Planning
Establish and maintain production plans to support the Master Production Schedule (MPS)
Perform finite capacity scheduling and analyze constraints to ensure optimal production flow
Develop and maintain capacity plans aligned with forecasted demand and production capabilities
Execute replenishment orders and adjust plans based on MRP and schedule changes
Monitor work-in-progress (WIP) queues and production feedback; take corrective action as needed
Maintain and communicate production priorities and status to shop floor and master planners
Proactively identify and escalate product and material availability risks
Ensure product availability to support customer order fulfillment
Materials & System Planning
Maintain and ensure accuracy of master data for assigned product lines
Update and revise system planning parameters in SAP to support future requirements
Maintain communication with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials
Manage supplier delivery schedules within SAP and support monthly forecast communication
Inventory Management
Monitor inventory levels, discrepancies, and non-conforming materials; take corrective action
Maintain timely resolution and rework of returned goods
Manage hold notices, recalls, and inventory-related compliance activities
Support inventory optimization, including safety stock levels and reduction initiatives
Track and support inventory performance metrics and reporting
Project Management & Continuous Improvement
Participate in New Product Introduction (NPI) and product launch activities
Support cross-functional improvement initiatives (e.g., Kaizen, cost reduction, lead time improvements)
Assist in the development and implementation of production and inventory control policies
Support Engineering Change Requests (ECR) and initiate required system or planning updates
Complete special projects and assignments as required
Cross-functional Collaboration
Partner with Customer Service, Sales, and Product Management to support business and product strategy
Maintain strong communication with Manufacturing to confirm production and shipping schedules
Monitor open production orders to ensure on-time delivery to customers
What will you need to be successful?
Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field
5+ years of relevant experience in production planning, capacity planning, or supply chain operations
Knowledge, Skills & Competencies
Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Strong interpersonal and communication (written and verbal) skills
Self-starter with the ability to work independently and respond quickly to changing priorities
Proficient in Microsoft Excel
Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems preferred
APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM) preferred or in progress
You Unlimited.
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.
Inclusion and Belonging- Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (https://www.smith-nephew.com/).
Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement
Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day
Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program
Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship
Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more!
Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
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Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.
Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field
- 5+ years relevant experience in production planning, capacity planning, or supply chain operations
- Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel
- Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems
- APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM) preferred or in progress
Smith & Nephew Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Smith & Nephew and has not been reviewed or approved by Smith & Nephew.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision plans are paired with a global mental‑health program for employees and families, indicating a robust core health package.
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Retirement Support — U.S. employees have access to a 401(k) with company contributions, and share plans complement long‑term savings.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Generous holiday, paid volunteering leave, and flexible work models point to broad time‑off options.
Smith & Nephew Insights
What We Do
Smith+Nephew is a global medical technology company. We design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. We support healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility, helping them to perform at their fullest potential. From our first employee and founder, T.J. Smith, to our team today, it’s our people who make Smith+Nephew a unique place. Yes, we love to innovate and develop exciting technologies, and we offer competitive salaries and progressive benefits. But it’s our culture - of Care, Collaboration and Courage - that really sets us apart. Through a spirit of ownership and can-do attitude, we work together to win.. We’re a company of people who care about each other, about our customers and their patients, and about our communities. Together, we fulfill our shared purpose of Life Unlimited. Please note: not all products referred to may be approved for use or available in all markets.
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