Production Scheduler

Company Description

H-P Products Engineered Tube Bends is a specialized provider in tube bending and fabrication, featuring expertise in bending, end forming, welding, and laser tube cutting. The company offers a variety of essential products, including standard elbows, bends, tubing, and installation accessories. With a commitment to quality, consistency, and customizability, H-P Products has been serving its customers with innovative solutions since 1948.

Job Title: Production Scheduler – Velocity Scheduling System (Bend and Non-Bend) 

Department: Operations 

Reports To: Production Manager 

FLSA Status: Exempt 

Location: H-P Products Inc.

Position Summary 

The Production Scheduler is responsible for planning, coordinating, and maintaining production schedules across both bend and non-bend areas using the Velocity Scheduling System (VSS). This role ensures efficient flow through all manufacturing processes by visually managing workflow, balancing workloads, and maintaining buffer control for bend operations. 

The Scheduler plays a key role in supporting production efficiency, maximizing throughput, and achieving on-time delivery while communicating closely with all departments to maintain visibility and control over shop priorities.              

Key Responsibilities 

1. Scheduling and Workflow Management 

• Develop, maintain, and update visual schedules for bend and non-bend operations using Velocity Scheduling principles. 
• Manage the bend buffer to regulate work release, ensuring flow stability and preventing production bottlenecks. 
• Sequence and prioritize jobs based on due dates, material availability, and shop capacity. 
• Track and monitor work-in-process (WIP) to ensure timely progression of jobs through all departments. 
• Coordinate with leads and supervisors to balance workloads and ensure resources are allocated effectively. 
• Adjust schedules proactively in response to changing priorities, materials, or customer needs. 

2. Communication and Coordination 

• Serve as the primary scheduling liaison between Production, Sales, Engineering, and Purchasing. 
• Lead or participate in daily and weekly Velocity Scheduling System meetings, providing updates on flow, constraints, and buffer status. 
• Communicate schedule updates and production adjustments promptly to all affected departments. 
• Collaborate closely with bend operators, fabrication leads, and assembly teams to maintain synchronization between processes. 

3. Data Tracking and Performance Monitoring 

• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), including on-time delivery, throughput, buffer health, and schedule adherence. 
• Maintain accuracy of schedule data in ERP/MRP systems and ensure visibility through the Velocity Scheduling Board. 
• Identify trends, delays, or process constraints and recommend adjustments for continuous flow improvement. 
• Support the Production Manager in analyzing capacity and planning for upcoming workloads. 

4. Continuous Improvement 

• Use VSS tools to identify and eliminate production bottlenecks. 
• Work with team leads to evaluate and adjust buffer sizes for optimal flow. 
• Participate in lean and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance scheduling efficiency and visibility. 
• Promote a culture of proactive problem solving and visual management across departments. 

Qualifications 

Education and Experience: 

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred. 
• Minimum production planning, or coordination experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment. 
• Experience in tube bending, metal fabrication, or assembly preferred. 
• Knowledge of the Velocity Scheduling System, Theory of Constraints (TOC), or Lean Manufacturing principles strongly desired. 

Skills and Competencies: 

• Must be able to make decisions when no one is around 
• Must take total ownership of the scheduling life cycle 
• Start all jobs to ensure success 
• Strong organizational and analytical skills. 
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities. 
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. 
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems, Excel, and visual management tools. 
• Understanding manufacturing workflows, including bending, welding, fabrication, and finishing processes. 

Performance Metrics:

• On-time delivery rate (bend and non-bend). 
• Throughput improvement and average lead time reduction. 
• Buffer health and WIP control. 
• Schedule accuracy and responsiveness to change. 
• Communication effectiveness across departments. 

Working Conditions:

• Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment. 
• Regular interaction with production teams, leads, and support departments. 
• Participation in daily and weekly VSS meetings.