Build Planner - Production

About ModalAI® accelerates autonomy by providing innovators with U.S.-manufactured robot and drone perception and communications systems. As a Blue UAS Framework manufacturer, we develop best-in-class autopilot and computing hardware to enable the next generation of smaller, smarter, and safer drones and robots. Robot integrators, ranging from enterprise to government, use our autopilots to accelerate autonomy across several industries. Our team of industry-leading experts in software, hardware, and mechanical engineering is passionate about technology and is shaping the future of U.S.-based drone and robot autonomy. About the Role ModalAI is hiring a full-time Build Planner at our San Diego headquarters. The Build Planner creates production schedules aligned with customer demand and sales forecasts, translates requirements through MRP analysis, issues work orders, and oversees kitting so builds start on time. The Build Planner works closely with the Procurement Specialist: the Planner sets demand schedules and submits purchase requisitions, and Procurement handles sourcing, suppliers, and purchase orders. The role also collaborates closely with Engineering, Production, and Quality to schedule prototype builds, carry out engineering changes, and maintain strict inventory accuracy. Essential Functions: Build Scheduling Convert customer demand, sales forecasts, and target buffer stock into weekly and monthly production schedules. In partnership with Production Leads and the Production Program Manager, sequence builds against manufacturing capacity, staffing, and component supply. Communicate schedule changes, risks, and target delivery dates to Production, Sales, and Operations leadership. Material Requirements Planning (MRP) Run and review MRP on a regular schedule to identify material constraints and deficits for upcoming production cycles. Submit purchase requisitions to the Procurement Specialist with part numbers, quantities, and need-by dates. Identify long-lead or late parts that put builds at risk and set expediting priorities. Lead a recurring shortage review with Procurement to agree on priorities and workarounds. Work Orders and Kitting Working with Production Leads and the Production Program Manager, create, release, track, and close work orders in the ERP system. Oversee component staging and kitting so builds start on time with every bill-of-materials part available. Track build status on the production floor and resolve operational issues that delay builds. Inventory Management Set min/max levels, reorder points, and safety stock using vendor lead times and order minimums provided by Procurement. Drive regular cycle counts and investigate and resolve inventory variances. Identify excess and slow-moving stock and work with Procurement on vendor returns, order cancellations, or disposal. Engineering Changes and New Product Introduction Assess the impact of engineering change orders (ECOs) on open work orders, inventory, and build schedules. Establish cut-in schedules for engineering changes and ensure coordination with Production and Procurement. Coordinate prototype and pilot production runs with Engineering. Verify that manufacturing use the correct revision-controlled components that meet Blue UAS and NDAA requirements. Documentation and Reporting Maintain accurate bills of materials, routings, and planning data in the ERP system. Report on key operational performance metrics, schedule adherence, part shortages, inventory levels, and work order status. Help improve material planning procedures and standard operational workflows. Non-Essential Functions: Make spot purchases of off-the-shelf parts from approved suppliers to cover build shortages, within authorized limits and in coordination with Procurement. Support physical inventory counts and warehouse organization projects. Recommend improvements to MRP tools, ERP processes, and manufacturing metrics. Required Qualifications: Associate degree in Supply Chai…

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