Production Engineer

Job Purpose (Significance of the role & Objectives)

The Production Engineer – Production Planning and Control is responsible for designing and executing efficient production schedules, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring timely completion of manufacturing orders. This role focuses heavily on integrating production planning with operational execution, maintaining consistent communication between production, procurement, quality, and logistics teams. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mindset, hands-on experience with planning tools, and a thorough understanding of manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities and Deliverables

• Analyze forecasts, customer orders, and inventory requirements to develop monthly and weekly production plans.
• Create and release production orders while ensuring load balancing across different production lines or work centers.
• Plan for capacity requirements (manpower, machinery, tools) to ensure production targets are met.
• Prepare daily/shift-wise production schedules aligned with production capabilities and priorities.
• Coordinate with shop floor supervisors to ensure daily production activities follow the plan.
• Address any production delays or disruptions by adjusting schedules in real time.
• Work closely with the procurement and stores team to ensure timely availability of raw materials, components, and consumables.
• Monitor stock levels and initiate purchase requisitions to avoid production stoppages.
• Conduct periodic reconciliation of planned vs actual material consumption.
• Monitor WIP (Work-in-Progress), track actual production against plan, and update deviations daily.
• Ensure adherence to standard cycle times and optimal utilization of machines and labor.
• Implement corrective actions in case of plan deviations, quality issues, or process inefficiencies.
• Generate reports on production performance, including OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), plan vs actuals, downtime, rework/rejection rates, and capacity utilization.
• Maintain accurate documentation of production logs, order statuses, and resource usage.
• Use data analytics to identify root causes of delays and recommend improvement measures.
• Participate in Kaizen, 5S, and Lean Manufacturing projects to streamline workflows and eliminate waste.
• Identify process bottlenecks, cycle time inefficiencies, or idle resources, and lead initiatives to improve throughput.
• Support digital transformation efforts such as implementation of ERP/MES systems and data dashboards.
• Work with Engineering for NPI (New Product Introduction) planning and line readiness.
• Coordinate with the Quality team for in-process and final inspection planning.
• Liaise with maintenance for machine availability and breakdown planning to ensure minimal downtime.
• Ensure production planning aligns with company SOPs, customer requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Maintain audit-ready documents related to production orders, inspection records, and material traceability.

Desired Qualifications: Required Qualification, Knowledge, and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical / Production / Industrial Engineering or equivalent.
• 2 – 6 years of experience in a manufacturing setup with hands-on involvement in PPC roles.
• Experience in high-volume, quality-driven industries like automotive, electronics, aerospace, FMCG, or engineering preferred.
• Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, MS Dynamics, etc.)
• Proficiency in MS Excel, and production scheduling tools (Gantt charts, MS Project, etc.)
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing, Kanban, 5S, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Excellent communication skills to coordinate across departments.
• Problem-solving mindset with a proactive attitude.

Key Competencies

• Result oriented/Goal driven.
• Proficiency in oral and written communication.
• Self-motivated, passionate about learning, and takes initiative with a problem-solving attitude.
• Highest level of integrity (teamwork, confidentiality, ethics, and integrity are the pre-requisite for the role).
• Sense of ownership and pride in his/her performance and its impact on the company’s success.