Production Planner

At KMT Waterjet, a Shape Technologies Group (SHAPE) company, we’re devoted to a single goal: delivering innovative manufacturing process solutions that propel our customers to success. SHAPE is a strategic ecosystem of companies including Advanced Pressure Systems (APS), Flow International, Shape Process Automation KMT Waterjet, H20 Jet, Aqua Dyne, Aquarese, Pro jet System, and TOPS. Collectively, we provide an extensive portfolio of manufacturing process solutions to customers around the world.

Spanning 100 countries and a broad array of industries, SHAPE is expanding its reach through a growing number of direct and indirect channels. By partnering with our customers, we become integral to the successful design and manufacture of their next-generation products. We continually scour the globe for new, industry-leading technologies to add to our differentiated portfolio of offerings and grow our customer base. Our vision is to become the preeminent advanced process solutions partner handling the highly engineered products of tomorrow.

What We Offer.

In addition to training and career advancement opportunities, we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, life insurance, paid disability insurance, education reimbursement, and more.

General Purpose:

Shape Technologies Group - Baxter Springs is seeking a Production Planner II to join our planning team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, evaluating, and maintaining comprehensive plans for designated product families and their associated components. You will report to the Master Scheduler and collaborate closely with other departments to maintain seamless operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following: 

• Support and advocate Continuous Improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities for enhancement and proposing innovative methods.
• Monitor assigned areas daily to ensure alignment with customer service targets, inventory objectives, production efficiency, and capacity goals.
• Collaborate with Sales, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to provide accurate and timely information on product availability, schedule adjustments, and address inquiries.
• Coordinate with PIC Scheduler to prioritize parts on the shop dispatch, ensuring optimal workflow.
• Generate action message reports and release work orders to the machine shop and assembly teams.
• Communicate scheduling information to relevant departments, including Operations, Business, Projects, and Manufacturing.
• Collect work orders from designated areas within the facility, verifying accuracy before finalizing.
• Adhere to ISO 9001 procedures and work instructions, proactively identifying opportunities for process improvement.
• Demonstrate a collaborative and team-oriented mindset, contributing to a positive work environment.
• Strictly follow safety protocols and procedures, promptly reporting potential hazards to supervisors.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of this position. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES: 

• Proficiency in basic Engineering and Procurement principles within a Lean manufacturing environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively coordinate and communicate across multiple departments.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all tasks.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while managing multiple projects within a team environment.
• Self-directed and proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Familiarity with quality standards and procedures.
• Proficient understanding of procurement principles, practices, and procedures.
• Prior experience in manufacturing planning and scheduling over multiple shifts and product lines.
• Capacity to adapt to changing priorities and environments in a fast-paced, dynamic organization.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel (or equivalent) and Microsoft Windows software functions.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE: 

• Associate's or bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent work experience in a related field.
• 3-7 years of experience in planning, purchasing, or engineering departments within a Lean manufacturing/operations environment.
• Experience with ERP systems is required; QAD/MFG Pro is preferred.
• APIC-CPIM certification preferred, though not required.