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.

Hottinger Brel & Kjr jobs

Upstream/Downstream Planner, In/Outbound & Shipping Specialist