Production Planning Analyst

The Production Planning Analyst supports production planning activities across Universal Stainless' key facilities in Bridgeville, PA, North Jackson, OH, and Dunkirk, NY, with a strong focus on applying Theory of Constraints (TOC) principles to improve flow, reduce lead times, and enhance on-time delivery. In this role, the analyst will help idetify system constrtaints, suppport schedule execution around those constraints, and assist in balancing material flow across the network. Working closely with senior planners, operations, and cross-functionay teams, the analyst contributes to improving throughput while managing inventory levels ande maintaining high service performance

This position is ideal for a professional looking to deepen their understanding of production planning, constrtaint-based scheduling, and manufacturing operations in a multi-site environment.

This position can be based at any of Universal Stainless' primary locations: Bridgeville, PA, North Jackson, OH, or Dunkirk, NY.

Monitor production flow and work-in-process (WIP) levels to ensure alignment with TOC principles

Assist in analyzing production data to identify bottlenecks, disruptions, and inefficiencies

Support actions that improve throughput while minimizing unnecessary inventory buildup

Support inventory planning efforts with a focus on maintaining appropriate buffers to protect throughput

Help track and manage key buffer positions (raw material, WIP, and finished goods)

Assist in balancing inventory levels with production flow and customer service needs

Maintain accurate production planning and inventory data in ERP systems and Excel-based tools

Generate reports on constraint performance, schedule adherence, lead times, and on-time delivery

Help identify trends and provide insights to improve planning effectiveness

Backfill planner roles across multiple manufacturing sites to ensure uninterrupted planning support and business continuity

Execute documented planning processes, standard work, and scheduling procedures to maintain operational performance during staffing gaps

Maintain and update planning documentation, work instructions, and process guides to support knowledge retention and cross-training efforts.

Drive consistency in planning execution by leveraging standardized processes and sharing best practices across locations

Support order fulfillment activities by tracking order progress through the production system

Assist in identifying orders at risk dur to constrain limitations and escalate as needed

Contribute to improving order visibility and reducing late deliveries

Participate in initiatives to improve system flow, scheduling processes, and constraint management

Support efforts to standardize planning processing using TOC concepts such as constraint identification, buffer management, and flow optimization

Build foundational knowledge of TOC methodologies and their application in a metals manufacturing environment

Exposure to Theory of Constraints (TOC) Lean Manufacturing, or capacity planning concepts

Experience with ERP or production planning systems

Experience working in a manufacturing environment (metals industry a plus

Primarily office-based with regular interaction on the shop floor to understand operations and constraints

Occasional travel between Bridgeville, North Jackson and Dunkirk facilities

Standard business hours with limited off-hours support as needed

Role with strong development focus in constraint-based planning and manufacturing flow

Opportunity to build expertise in multi-site planning and TOC implementation

Growth path into Senior Analyst or Production Planner roles with increasing ownership of scheduling and constraint management