At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and coordinate production schedules to meet customer demands.
- Company: Join NP Aerospace, a leader in defence technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, generous holiday, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team culture focused on collaboration and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Experience in production planning and strong analytical skills required.
Location: Coventry, UK
Core Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon–Thu) 08:00-15:10 (Fri).
Vacancy Type: Full-time, 12 month FTC and onsite
Salary: £30,000 - £37,500 per annum (subject to experience)
About the role
Plan with precision. Keep production moving. We’re looking for an experienced and proactive Production Planner to join our Vehicle Systems team in Coventry on a 12 month FTC. In this role, you’ll manage and coordinate the Master Production Schedule (MPS) ensuring materials, capacity, and resources align to meet customer demand across multiple programmes. You’ll work closely with Material Controllers, Production Managers, and key stakeholders to optimise workflow, maintain accurate schedules, and ensure production runs efficiently and on time. If you enjoy problem-solving, coordination, and seeing your plans come to life on the shop floor, this could be the ideal opportunity for you.
What you’ll get in return
- Performance rewards – discretionary bonus opportunities
- Flex your day – flexible start and finish times (subject to manager approval and operational needs)
- Time to recharge – 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays, with the option to buy more through our Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Support for Defence – two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadets, plus paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs)
- Future security – competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions)
- Peace of mind – life cover at 3x base salary
- Health & wellbeing first – BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs
- Grow with us – career development and advancement opportunities within a global business
- Supportive environment – a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose
What you’ll be doing
In this role, you’ll take ownership of the Master Production Schedule (MPS), consolidating multiple project demands into achievable, efficient plans that align with capacity and customer delivery targets. You’ll generate and manage Production Works Orders (PWOs), ensuring accuracy, timely updates, and proper closure to support invoicing and reporting. Working closely with Material Controllers, you’ll ensure inbound materials meet production requirements, while collaborating with Production Managers to align manpower and resources to schedule. You’ll also help drive continuous improvement – identifying process efficiencies and system enhancements that keep our production planning function robust and responsive.
What we’re looking for
- Strong planning, analytical, and communication skills, along with hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience in production planning or supply chain management within low to medium-volume automotive or defence manufacturing.
- Proficiency with QAD, MRP, or equivalent systems.
- Experience managing Bills of Materials (BoMs) and production schedules.
- Understanding of system integration and configuration management.
- Ability to coordinate effectively across multiple business functions.
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach with strong attention to detail.
- HNC or equivalent qualification in a manufacturing or technical discipline (desirable).
- Experience in risk and opportunity management to ensure operational efficiency.
Our team embraces modern technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to work smarter and deliver better results. Candidates should either have experience using AI tools or demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply them in their role.
What do we do at NP Aerospace?
NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry. Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers' complex challenges. Our values - Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication form the bedrock of our culture.
Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour, from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits, highlights some of the most advanced composite materials. With a team of R&D engineers working on next-generation solutions, we also excel in highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations.
Founded in 1926, NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years, evolving into an agile and diverse company. Our Business Development team is expanding both in the UK and North America.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board.
Data Privacy: NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws.
Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.
Locations
Production Planner in Coventry, Longford employer: N P Aerospace Ltd
At NP Aerospace, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and innovative work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and growth. Located in Coventry, our team enjoys flexible working hours, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to career development within a global leader in defence technology. Join us to be part of a collaborative environment where your contributions directly impact the safety and security of lives worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Planner in Coventry, Longford
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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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!
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like N P Aerospace 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Planner in Coventry, Longford
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 N P Aerospace 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 N P Aerospace Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with N P Aerospace 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 N P Aerospace 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.
