Upstream/Downstream Planner, In/Outbound & Shipping Specialist

Job Summary:

The Upstream/Downstream Planner, Inbound/Outbound & Shipping Specialist is responsible for end-to-end planning and execution of material flow within a manufacturing environment. This role ensures timely availability of raw materials (upstream), efficient production support, and accurate, on-time delivery of finished goods (downstream). The position acts as a key liaison between suppliers, manufacturing, logistics partners, and internal stakeholders to optimize inventory levels, transportation costs, and customer service performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and schedule inbound materials to support production requirements and manufacturing schedules
• Collaborate with procurement and suppliers to ensure on-time delivery of raw materials and components
• Monitor supplier performance, lead times, and capacity constraints
• Resolve inbound shipment delays, discrepancies, or quality issue
• Coordinate production output with outbound shipment schedules
• Plan and execute customer deliveries in alignment with service-level agreements
• Manage finished goods inventory flow
• Support demand planning and sales forecasts by aligning shipping capacity with demand
• Coordinate domestic and/or international transportation for inbound and outbound shipments
• Prepare and review shipping documentation
• Work with freight forwarders, carriers, and 3PLs to ensure cost-effective and compliant shipments
• Track shipments and proactively address transit issues or delays
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., customs, export controls, DOT, OSHA)
• Verify freight invoices and support cost control initiatives
• Maintain accurate records
• Partner closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, Customer Service, and other internal/external teams
• Participate in S&OP, production planning, and capacity review meetings
• Identify opportunities to improve planning accuracy, logistics efficiency, and process standardization
• Support continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, process optimization)
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations Management, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 3-5+ years of experience in supply chain planning, logistics, or manufacturing operations
• Hands-on experience with inbound and outbound logistics coordination
• Strong working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, etc.)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data analysis)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a regulated or complex manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of international shipping, Incoterms, and customs documentation
• APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP) or similar supply chain credential
• Familiarity with Lean or continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing setting
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• High attention to detail and problem-solving mindset
• Cost-conscious approach with a focus on service and efficiency

Compensation:

The pay range for this position is $67,000.00 - $84,000.00. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to the individual's qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as physical work location within the state.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States full-time and will not require sponsorship either now or in the future to obtain an employment visa.