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Job Overview
This position requires a proactive and detail-oriented professional to manage planning system outputs and inventory controls, ensuring optimal stock levels and high order fulfillment rates. This position plays a key role in aligning supply chain operations with business goals, making data-driven decisions that support customer satisfaction and operational excellence
A scheduling planner plays a vital role in aligning inventory levels with the dynamic needs of the business, directly supporting customer satisfaction by ensuring products are available when needed. This position involves daily efforts to maintain accurate forecasts and proactively monitor demand changes that could impact inventory. Skills required for this position also include strong analytical and planning abilities along with a positive mindset and proactive approach to problem solving and teamwork.
A scheduling planner oversees inventory daily by utilizing a variety of reports and Power Business Intelligence dashboards. On average, each planner is responsible for managing approximately 25,000 part numbers. This role directly impacts the business inventory goals each year as this position is responsible for managing their portion of approximately $400 million in inventory dollars. Planners collaborate with 1,569 vendors across multiple countries. Addressing and overcoming language barriers is an important part of the role. Additionally, because of varying time zones, planners sometimes participate in meetings scheduled outside of standard business hours. In this role, planners are responsible for handling multiple reports each day. Tasks must often be prioritized based on the urgency and importance of specific issues. Flexibility is essential, as planners need to adapt to shifting priorities to ensure all critical work is completed effectively.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Analyzing demand trends, forecasts, and inventory targets along with approving purchase orders to supply chain vendors based on system-generated recommendation
- Conduct root cause analysis, establish countermeasures, and maintain performance metrics to meet business plan objectives
- Review vendor performance reports monthly and work collaboratively with relevant departments to identify issues and implement effective corrective actions
- Proactively coordinate and fulfill customer firm future orders (FFO) and scheduled orders, ensuring all commitments are met on time. Communicate estimated time of departure (ETDs) to customers promptly and closely monitor order progress to guarantee that all parts are delivered as scheduled. Take necessary actions to resolve any issues that may impact on-time delivery, maintaining a strong focus on customer satisfaction
- Evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) that include fill rate, inventory levels, the number of past due purchase orders, and backorder aging. These metrics provide a comprehensive view of planner performance by measuring how effectively customer orders are fulfilled, how well inventory is managed, the timeliness of purchase order completion, and the speed at which backorders are resolved.
- Actively collaborate with various departments—such as purchasing, customer care, sales, operations, and logistics—to share information, coordinate planning activities, and resolve issues that impact inventory management and order fulfillment. This cross-functional teamwork ensures alignment of business objectives and supports efficient, effective operations across the organization.
- Recommending system parameter adjustments to improve performance and efficiency
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor
Qualifications/Requirements
Required Skills
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Materials Management, Logistics, Purchasing or equivalent work experience
- 3-5 years of experience in planning and supply chain execution is preferred
- APICS certification or work towards certification a plus
- May involve occasional travel
Preferred Skills
- Working knowledge of Materials Management processes including forecasting, planning and distribution
- Professional PC skills and systems knowledge including Microsoft Office suite (Word, Access, PowerPoint, Excel i.e. pivot tables, V-lookup, etc.)
- Consistently evaluates complex data sets and identifies trends to support effective inventory planning and operational improvements
- Identifies root causes of supply chain disruptions and develops practical solutions to ensure timely order fulfillment
- Makes informed decisions regarding inventory adjustments and order prioritization with minimal supervision, ensuring business objectives are met
- Easily adjusts to shifting priorities and changing business needs, maintaining high performance even in fast-paced or uncertain environments
- Results oriented, bias for action, and a sense of urgency
- Embraces accountability and responsibility – individual and shared
- Regular attendance
Additional Information
Company Benefits
Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
- 401k and/or employee savings programs
- Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
- Employee and family assistance programs
- Disability benefits
- Life insurance
- Employee learning and development programs
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions. We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.
Company Information
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company’s founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at www.komatsu.com.
EEO Statement
Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.