Planning and Scheduling Specialist

Merck•Milwaukee, WI

About The Position

The Planning and Scheduling Specialist at the Milwaukee, Wisconsin site develops, adjusts, troubleshoots, and maintains the Master Plan for packaged products. The role ensures packaged products are available for distribution centers and collaborates with operations to meet fill-rate objectives for domestic and global customers. The specialist develops production schedules in SAP, maintains and audits SAP MRP parameters, analyzes planned orders and packaging orders, and coordinates with internal and global teams to validate forecasts, materials, inventory needs, and logistics. The position also tracks performance, identifies bottlenecks, and leads process improvements to reduce waste and cycle times, increase throughput, and optimize working capital. This role does not offer work authorization sponsorship. External applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Mathematics, Supply Chain Management, or another business field.
At least 2 years of experience managing materials through the end-to-end product delivery lifecycle.
At least 2 years of experience in supply chain, forecasting, or planning/scheduling.

Nice To Haves

Strong computer skills, including Word, Excel, and Palantir.
Knowledge of ISO standards in relation to preparing documents.
Certification from APICs or IBF.
SAP system experience.
Experience in process improvement.
Knowledge of basic scheduling techniques and material requirements planning.
Proven computer proficiency and strong data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

Develop and monitor production schedules in SAP to optimize throughput, meet customer service targets, and satisfy business goals.
Maintain and audit critical SAP MRP parameters, including safety stock, lot sizes, lead times, and procurement keys.
Analyze planned orders and convert them into packaging orders, evaluating impacts across the supply chain.
Partner with Sales, Marketing, and purchasing planners to validate demand forecasts and material availability in SAP and PPC.
Coordinate with global planning teams to integrate system designs, inventory requirements, and end-to-end logistics.
Evaluate inventory levels and demand trends to prevent stockouts and maintain high service levels.
Build SAP-generated metric reports to track performance, test scenarios, and refine planning strategies.
Lead initiatives to eliminate waste, streamline production workflows, and increase operational productivity.
Test and implement solutions to reduce cycle times, improve throughput efficiency, and optimize working capital.
Master end-to-end operational processes to diagnose bottlenecks, resolve execution issues, and drive ongoing enhancements.