Planner/Scheduler

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Planner/Scheduler

Classification: Salary, Exempt, Full-Time

Department: Plant Operations

Direct Supervisor: Plant Superintendent

Location: Kearny, NJ

Job Summary: This position is responsible for implementing and maintaining an "ahead-based" plan and schedule for maintenance and capital improvement activities in a production environment. Responsibilities include setting regular planning sessions with production, maintenance, and engineering to select the mechanical, I/E, and production work ahead of the actual execution date. This ensures that materials and resources are available and that the operating plant is prepared to surrender the portion of the process requiring repair. The role also ensures that data entered into the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) is accurate and includes routine audits to confirm that repair intervals are correct and producing progressive data.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None, except for occasional direction of contracted work.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Plan, prioritize, and schedule preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities in coordination with plant operations and engineering teams.
• Develop detailed job plans including labor, materials, tools, permits, equipment, and supplemental manpower as required.
• Create and maintain the maintenance schedule to balance workload and minimize operational impact.
• Coordinate with operations to identify optimal downtime windows for maintenance activities.
• Track and manage work orders in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
• Leverage the CMMS to plan and reserve parts, assign materials and resources to work orders, coordinate kitting activities, and ensure accurate asset management.
• Assist Purchasing in designating ABC classification of parts within the CMMS to ensure supply needs are met, maintain accurate inventory levels, and reduce carrying costs.
• Ensure spare parts, materials, and resources are available ahead of scheduled maintenance.
• Analyze historical maintenance data to identify trends and recommend reliability improvements.
• Support the development and optimization of preventive maintenance programs.
• Generate and distribute weekly, monthly, and ad hoc maintenance schedules and reports.

• Ensure all maintenance activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Mechanical aptitude and a basic understanding of event-based job execution.
• Excellent organizational, oral, and written communication skills, along with strong analytical, time management, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software, with a strong focus on CMMS navigation.
• Ability to interact with all levels of employees, including frequent contact with Maintenance Supervisors, Plant Management, Engineering, and upper management.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with changing priorities.
• Proficiency with CMMS software suite.
• Must be able to pass a 10-panel controlled substance test and comply with random testing thereafter.
• Must be able to pass a background investigation and remain in good standing as per TSA’s TWIC criteria.

Education and Experience:

• Advanced degree or certification(s) in a technical and/or maintenance-related discipline preferred.
• 5+ years of industrial experience in a chemical plant or related industry.

• Knowledge of OSHA general industry standards and general duty clauses.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 40 lbs. at times.
• Work environment frequently shifts between office settings and plant environments, which may involve standing, climbing, and exposure to varying weather and climate conditions.

• Adherence to safety protocols and proper use of personal protective equipment.

This position description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with this position. While this position description is intended to reflect the position's activities and requirements accurately, management reserves the right to modify, and or remove duties as necessary. This is a Safety Sensitive Position within the organization.

Kuehne is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/Disabled/Veteran)