Fiber Utilization Planning Analyst

AFL•Duncan, SC

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $2B in revenue, and employ approximately 12,000 associates worldwide. At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity. The Fiber Utilization Planning Analyst is responsible for optimizing fiber consumption across the Cable manufacturing network through data-driven planning, analysis, and cross-functional coordination. This role develops and governs the fiber conversion strategy to maximize raw material yield, reduce scrap, and maintain optimal inventory levels. This position operates as an individual contributor with strong analytical and decision-making capability, influencing Manufacturing, Supply Chain, IT, and Commercial teams to align execution to an optimized fiber consumption plan. The role owns the planning strategy, while execution is performed by operations and the Fiber Department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Supply Chain, or related field
Strong analytical capability with experience in data analysis, modeling, and process improvement
Practical understanding of inventory management processes, controls, and accuracy metrics
3+ years of manufacturing experience with working knowledge of production flow
Experience collaborating across Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams
Experience with ERP systems (Oracle R12 or similar manufacturing modules)
Knowledge of Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
Results-oriented problem solver with strong analytical rigor and attention to detail
Self-starter capable of operating independently while influencing without authority
Strong communicator who can translate complex data into clear, actionable insights
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
Demonstrates humble confidence and a commitment to continuous improvement

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in planning, supply chain, or continuous improvement role preferred
APICS or similar supply chain certification preferred
Experience in cable, wire, or similar manufacturing environments preferred

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain fiber consumption strategies that maximize conversion efficiency from raw material to finished goods
Analyze fiber yield performance, identifying loss drivers and implementing corrective action plans to improve conversion rates
Optimize the systematic utilization of short fiber lengths to minimize scrap and increase usable output
Define and track key performance metrics related to fiber utilization, scrap, and yield
Establish fiber consumption plans aligned with production schedules, demand signals, and inventory targets
Own fiber inventory strategy, ensuring balance between availability, working capital, and obsolescence risk
Maintain governance over inventory accuracy, controls, and planning assumptions
Partner with Supply Chain to align purchasing and stocking strategies with optimized consumption plans
Utilize statistical and analytical methods to measure performance, identify trends, and recommend improvements
Develop models and scenarios to evaluate trade-offs across scrap, efficiency, and inventory positioning
Provide actionable recommendations to leadership that align operational decisions with financial and utilization goals
Collaborate with Manufacturing to ensure execution aligns with planned fiber consumption strategies
Partner with Commercial teams to understand product mix impacts on fiber utilization and recommend alignment opportunities
Work with IT and systems teams to enhance planning tools, data visibility, and reporting capabilities
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across functions to improve fiber planning processes
Provide fiber utilization inputs and constraints into capacity planning and S&OP processes
Support scenario planning by evaluating the fiber implications of demand and production changes
Ensure alignment between fiber plans and broader operational and financial objectives