Job Overview

The Master Scheduler is responsible for owning and maintaining the Master Production Schedule (MPS) at the finished goods level across the tactical horizon of 4 to 13 weeks or the applicable product lead time. This role translates demand and supply plans into a feasible schedule that balances customer commitments, material availability, and plant capacity. By stabilizing the production load and providing a clear, executable plan, the Master Scheduler enables reliable order confirmation and on-time delivery. The role works cross-functionally with supply chain, production, engineering, and customer service to ensure schedule stability and operational excellence.

Job Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Analysis

• Analyze capacity, constraints, lead times, and throughput to optimize production flow.
• Evaluate operational and tactical horizon impacts on the schedule and translate monthly supply plans into weekly executable MPS outputs.
• Monitor schedule adherence, stability, demand changes, and risks to customer delivery.
• Assess material availability and identify potential shortages, bottlenecks, and load imbalances.
• Provide data-driven insights to SIOP processes and supply chain leadership.

Systems

• Maintain the Master Production Schedule in ERP (SAP preferred) and ensure planning parameters and master data support accurate scheduling.
• Use planning and scenario tools (SAP, IBP, or equivalent) to model alternate scenarios and evaluate feasibility.
• Drive system accuracy through participation in UAT, validation activities, and process changes impacting scheduling.
• Monitor and report key scheduling and service metrics using system-generated data.

Collaboration

• Serve as the liaison between global Supply Planners and plant operations by translating monthly supply plans into weekly production commitments.
• Partner with Customer Service and Product Management to align on customer priorities and delivery commitments.
• Influence and guide Finite Planners and Shop Floor Schedulers to ensure alignment with the MPS.
• Work closely with Procurement, Operations, Engineering, and Quality to resolve conflicts and maintain execution stability.

Communication

• Confirm and communicate customer order dates based on the MPS.
• Provide clear, timely updates on risks, constraints, and schedule changes to cross-functional stakeholders.
• Represent plant scheduling capability and constraint status in SIOP and leadership forums.
• Publish schedule adherence and KPI dashboards to ensure visibility of performance and risks.

Process Improvement

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on schedule accuracy, lead time performance, material flow, and service levels.
• Standardize planning processes and scheduling routines across sites where applicable.
• Develop and refine KPIs and reporting to drive accountability and discipline.
• Identify and eliminate root causes of schedule instability

What your background should look like

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or supply chain management, preferably in Aerospace, Defense, or industrial manufacturing
• Proficient in ERP Systems, preferably SAP and IBP with hands-on experience in planning, scheduling, and scenario planning processes
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and SIOP processes
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate effectively with teams at all levels
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• APICS/CPIM certification is a plus

Competencies