Production Planner

Job Title: Production Planner
Location: Prairie Farms Dairy – Somerset, KY
Department: Production
Reports To: Plant Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Overview

Prairie Farms Dairy is seeking a detail-oriented, highly organized Production Planner to join our team in Somerset, KY. This role is critical to ensuring our production runs smoothly, efficiently, and on schedule. The Production Planner will coordinate the purchasing, production, inventory, and load-out of dairy products, maintaining constant alignment with sales, logistics, and production teams.

This position requires a proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and excels in cross-functional collaboration. You will be the key link between multiple departments to ensure that the right product is available at the right time—without sacrificing quality, compliance, or customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Production Planning & Scheduling

• Develop, maintain, and adjust daily, weekly, and long-term production schedules based on sales forecasts, inventory targets, customer demand, and plant capacity.
• Coordinate raw material procurement in alignment with production needs and inventory control.
• Ensure optimal sequencing of production lines to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.

Inventory & Load-Out Management

• Monitor and maintain inventory levels of finished goods and raw materials, ensuring accurate records in ERP systems.
• Coordinate with warehouse and distribution teams to ensure timely load-out of finished goods.
• Troubleshoot discrepancies or delays in load-out processes to avoid customer service disruptions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as a liaison between Sales, Production, Quality Assurance, Procurement, and Logistics teams to streamline communication and execution of production goals.
• Ensure all stakeholders are aligned with scheduling plans and priorities.
• Communicate with other Prairie Farms divisions as needed for shared inventory, order fulfillment, or supply chain coordination.

Deadline & Demand Management

• Analyze sales forecasts, seasonal trends, and customer orders to anticipate demand and proactively adjust schedules.
• Identify and resolve production conflicts or constraints before they impact deadlines.
• Collaborate with plant leadership to implement contingency plans when faced with production interruptions or changes in demand.

Process Improvement

• Continuously evaluate production planning procedures and suggest improvements to increase efficiency and reduce waste.
• Participate in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives to streamline workflow.

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a production planning, scheduling, or supply chain role within a manufacturing environment (preferably food or beverage)
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data to drive decision-making
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines
• Proven ability to work collaboratively across departments
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel); experience with ERP/MRP systems.

Preferred:

• Experience in dairy, food, or beverage manufacturing
• Familiarity with FDA, USDA, or SQF regulatory environments
• Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Office and production floor environment; must be comfortable walking production areas.
• Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs.) and long periods of sitting or standing may be required.
• Must be able to respond to off-hours communications in urgent situations.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunities for advancement and career development within a strong cooperative network
• A collaborative team environment with a focus on quality, service, and integrity

About Prairie Farms Dairy

Prairie Farms is a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to providing fresh, high-quality dairy products across the country. With a strong commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustain