About the Role
We are launching a new manufacturing facility in the United States as part of Alfaparf Group, an international leader in the beauty and professional personal care industry headquartered in Italy.
We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Production Planning & Supply Chain Specialist to support the planning and execution of our manufacturing operations. This role is primarily focused on production planning, while also supporting purchasing activities during the start-up phase of the plant.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their supply chain career who wants to develop into a Production Planner within an international manufacturing organization. As the plant grows, the position will evolve into a dedicated planning role with increased responsibility.
This is not a highly structured corporate environment. We are building a new operation where initiative, adaptability, and a hands-on approach are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Production Planning (Primary Focus)
- Develop and maintain daily and weekly production schedules based on customer demand, forecasts, inventory levels, and manufacturing capacity.
- Plan material requirements using ERP/MRP tools to ensure uninterrupted production.
- Monitor raw material availability and proactively identify shortages or supply risks.
- Coordinate closely with Production, Purchasing, Warehouse, and Customer Service to align production priorities.
- Update and maintain planning parameters, production orders, and material master data within the ERP system.
- Analyze production performance, inventory levels, and planning accuracy to recommend improvements.
- Support capacity planning and scheduling as production volume and product portfolio expand.
- Maintain accurate planning reports and KPI dashboards.
- Assist in developing standardized planning processes as the new manufacturing facility grows.
Procurement & Material Planning
- Purchase raw materials, indirect materials, and operational supplies required to support production.
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure materials are delivered on time and according to production schedules.
- Support supplier sourcing, RFQs, and vendor selection activities.
- Monitor supplier performance related to delivery, quality, and responsiveness.
- Expand procurement responsibilities to include packaging materials as manufacturing operations increase.
Logistics & Operations Support
- Coordinate inbound material deliveries with logistics providers.
- Support import/export documentation and customs coordination when required.
- Collaborate with warehouse operations to ensure accurate inventory transactions and material availability.
- Assist in developing efficient supply chain processes for the new manufacturing operation.
Qualifications
- 1–3 years of experience in Production Planning, Material Planning, Supply Chain, Procurement, or Manufacturing Operations.
- Manufacturing experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of MRP/ERP planning processes is required.
- Experience with SAP (PP/MM modules) is highly desirable.
- Understanding of inventory management, production scheduling, and material planning concepts.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritize multiple activities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Comfortable working in a start-up environment where priorities may change quickly.
Technical Skills
Required
- Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Excel
- Pivot Tables
- VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP
- INDEX/MATCH
- Basic statistical analysis
- Data analysis and reporting
- Intermediate computer literacy.
- ERP/MRP experience supporting production planning.
An Intermediate/Advanced Excel assessment will be administered during the selection process.
Preferred
- SAP PP/MM experience.
- Knowledge of production scheduling methodologies.
- Understanding of inventory control and demand planning.
- Familiarity with manufacturing KPIs and reporting.
Languages
- Fluent English (required).
- Italian and/or Spanish are considered a plus.
Core Competencies
- Production Planning
- Material Requirements Planning (MRP)
- Production Scheduling
- Inventory Management
- Analytical Thinking
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Process Improvement
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Customer Focus
- Results Orientation
- Adaptability
- Time Management
Why Join Us
- Be part of launching a brand-new U.S. manufacturing facility backed by an established international organization.
- Gain direct exposure to manufacturing planning, ERP systems, and international supply chain operations.
- Work alongside experienced global teams while taking ownership from day one.
- Enjoy significant career growth opportunities as the plant expands and planning complexity increases.
- Develop into a key contributor within our U.S. Supply Chain organization.
Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
