Hybrid Production Control Senior Planner bei Karman Space & Defense

COME JOIN OUR TEAM!

Salary Range (Estimated):

$82,000 – $100,000 annually (based on experience, industry, and qualifications)

Without the strength of our manufacturing team, we would not be able to offer the industry-leading service we’re known for. We’re seeking an experienced Planner to work in the manufacturing department. The ideal candidate will have proven industry experience as a Planner.

The Production Control Coordinator is responsible for all aspects of scheduling, planning and deployment strategy for Huntington Beach products to achieve targeted customer service levels and cost targets.  

The qualified candidate has demonstrated the ability to pursue innovative planning solutions based on an accurate assessment of business requirements. A successful track record of driving the planning process, and BOM management.  The candidate must also have demonstrated the ability to create continuous improvement programs on related systems deployed to keep them current and relevant.

KARMAN SPACE & DEFENSE: Karman is the market leading suppliers of metallic and composite flight hardware and sub-assemblies for the space, missile, and hypersonic markets. Karman offers an unprecedented capability set to customers, creating a supply chain solution in a historically fragmented supply base. The Karman team draws on in-house expertise in engineering & design, precision machining, large part forming, welding, heat age, finishing, assembly, ablative & insulative composites, and other capabilities to serve as a strategic partner to customers. Karman is headquartered in greater Los Angeles and currently has 5 locations in Southern California and 1 location in Mukilteo, Washington. 

Equal Opportunity 

Karman is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform servicemember status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. 

Our management is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy with respect to hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, recruitment advertising, pay, and other forms of compensation, training, and general treatment during employment.

Position Summary:

The Senior Production Planner is a key strategic and operational role responsible for developing, optimizing, and overseeing complex production schedules to meet customer demands and internal objectives. This individual will lead planning initiatives, resolve cross-functional conflicts, and serve as a critical liaison between Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Program Management. The ideal candidate brings deep experience with ERP/MRP systems, production planning, and materials management, along with a proactive mindset and leadership capabilities.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and continuous optimization of detailed, multi-department production schedules based on forecasts, demand changes, and capacity constraints
• Collaborate with Engineering, Procurement, and Operations to ensure alignment of materials, manpower, and workflow across the supply chain
• Oversee planning for long-lead items and complex BOM structures in coordination with Project Managers and Procurement
• Maintain and improve MRP/ERP data integrity, including lead times, safety stock, routing, and production order details
• Identify scheduling conflicts, bottlenecks, and supply chain risks; propose and execute solutions to maintain on-time delivery
• Provide regular updates to stakeholders, including schedule performance metrics, material readiness reports, and recovery plans
• Support new product introductions (NPI) and engineering change implementation through proactive schedule and material readiness planning
• Analyze production trends, capacity utilization, and inventory levels to support strategic planning and resource decisions
• Mentor junior planners and serve as a knowledge resource for planning tools, methodologies, and systems
• Drive cross-functional process improvements in planning, material flow, and scheduling systems to reduce lead times and improve responsiveness
• Participate in audits, customer readiness reviews, and internal improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations in a manufacturing or engineering-driven environment
• Expertise in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar); ability to interpret and manipulate BOMs, routings, and work orders
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials planning, and inventory management principles
• Ability to manage multiple, complex schedules with a high degree of accuracy and agility
• Proven skills in root cause analysis, issue resolution, and performance tracking
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and project planning tools (MS Project or equivalent)
• Strong communication skills—both verbal and written—with the ability to interact across all levels of the organization
• Highly organized with excellent prioritization and problem-solving abilities
• Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident) in compliance with export control regulations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in aerospace, composites, defense, or regulated manufacturing industries
• APICS/CPIM or PMP certification
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or Six Sigma principles
• Experience leading cross-functional teams or mentoring other planners

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent sitting, standing, and walking in a manufacturing and office environment
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs occasionally
• Extended computer use and occasional overtime or weekend work to support key milestones