Production Planner
Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.
SARA's High Powered Electromagnetics group (HPEM) is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Planning & MRP Implementation Lead to build and lead the company's production planning capability as we transition from spreadsheet-based manufacturing planning to a fully integrated MRP environment, all out of our Colorado Springs, CO location.
This is not a traditional Production Planner role. This position offers a unique opportunity to design, implement, and own the manufacturing planning function from the ground up.
We are seeking a hands-on manufacturing planning professional who has successfully implemented and operated an ERP/MRP planning system within a manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will lead the configuration and deployment of an ERP manufacturing planning functionality by establishing production planning processes, developing manufacturing master data, configuring planning parameters, and creating a sustainable planning system that will support future growth.
Following implementation, this individual will own day-to-day production planning and scheduling while continuously improving manufacturing planning processes, inventory performance, and schedule execution.
Core Responsibilities:
- Manufacturing Planning System Implementation
- Lead the implementation of Deltek Costpoint Manufacturing and MRP planning capabilities
- Transition manufacturing planning from spreadsheet-based scheduling to an integrated MRP-driven planning environment
- Configure and validate planning related parameters (e.g. Lead Times, Safety Stock…)
- Develop planning logic that accurately reflects manufacturing capacity and material flow
- Validate MRP outputs and continuously refine planning parameters
- Production Planning & Scheduling
- Develop executable production schedules
- Balance production priorities across multiple manufacturing programs
- Monitor schedule adherence and resolve production bottlenecks
- Review production station availability, labor bandwidth, and maintenance schedules to balance workloads and prevent idle time
- Monitor material availability from purchasing, thru to the production line
- Develop standardized routing structures
- Create planning standards that support long-term scalability
- Continuous Improvement; Develop and monitor production planning related KPIs
- Analyze production data, inventory trends, and operational metrics to identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements
- Collaborate with production supervisors and management to resolve scheduling conflicts and operational disruptions
- Ensure compliance with company safety policies, quality standards, and manufacturing procedures
- Prepare reports and communicate production status, delays, and performance metrics to leadership
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost savings, productivity, and efficiency enhancement
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field (relevant job experience may be considered in lieu of degree)
- 10 – 12 years of experience in a manufacturing environment with a focus on:
- Production scheduling
- Supply chain coordination
- Logistics or operations planning
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Cost Point, or similar platforms
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Microsoft Excel
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Experience with inventory planning and production forecasting
- US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD/DoW security clearance
- May require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 40 pounds
- Working environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist
Preferred Qualifications:
- 12 – 15 years of relevant experience
- Active DoD Secret or Top Secret clearance
- APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) preferred
- 10+ Aerospace/Defense electronics equipment production experience
- Experience using Deltek Costpoint Manufacturing ERP and MRP system
SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:
- Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
- A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
- Tuition & certification reimbursement
- Flexible work schedules
- Discretionary Employee bonuses
- 401(k) match/profit sharing
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Pay Range
Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $60k to $100k (annual USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.
Application Deadline: August 19, 2026
SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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