Help turn customer orders into achievable production plans
Metador is looking for an organised and proactive Production Planner to join our Operations team in Middlesbrough.
Reporting to the Planning Manager, you will create and maintain realistic production plans that meet customer delivery requirements and internal targets. You will coordinate orders across Sales, Planning, Production, Purchasing and Finance, working with both internal teams and external partners to keep orders moving and delivery commitments on track.
This role would suit someone who enjoys bringing structure to a busy manufacturing environment, can manage multiple priorities and is confident communicating when plans, risks or requirements change.
What you'll be doing
- Develop and maintain achievable production plans aligned to customer delivery dates.
- Coordinate design, approval, production, supply and delivery activities.
- Identify capacity and supply-chain constraints that could affect the plan.
- Work with customers and internal teams to secure order approvals and sign-off.
- Maintain accurate delivery dates and proactively manage risks to delivery.
- Communicate changes, priorities and potential issues clearly to relevant stakeholders.
- Work closely with Despatch and Finance to support accurate order records and timely invoicing.
- Maintain accuracy across multiple live orders while adapting plans as priorities change.
What we're looking for
- Strong organisational skills and excellent attention to detail.
- A methodical approach, with the flexibility to respond to changing priorities.
- Good problem-solving and analytical skills.
- A proactive, hands-on and results-focused mindset.
- Confidence working independently and as part of a wider operational team.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to coordinate and influence across departments.
- Good IT skills, particularly Microsoft Excel.
- Previous experience in production or manufacturing planning would be advantageous.
Why join Metador?
You will be joining an ambitious British manufacturing business where effective planning has a direct impact on production performance, customer experience and delivery.
The role offers the opportunity to work across the full order journey, build strong relationships throughout the business and play an important part in improving how customer commitments are planned and delivered.
If you are organised, commercially aware and comfortable managing detail in a fast-moving manufacturing environment, we would like to hear from you.
The Package
Salary - £38-42k depending on experience
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Production Planner employer: Metador Ltd
Metador is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and hands-on work environment for its Production Manager role in Middlesbrough. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to shape production processes and lead a dedicated team, all while enjoying competitive benefits such as a quarterly bonus scheme and a health cash plan. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a growing manufacturing business that values accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Planner
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Metador Ltd, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Metador Ltd specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Metador Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Metador Ltd, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Metador Ltd value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.