Job brief
We are seeking a detail-oriented Production Analyst to join our manufacturing operations team and drive excellence across our high-volume production lines. In this role, you will analyze critical process data, coordinate with cross-functional leads, and implement improvements that directly impact our efficiency and cost-reduction goals. If you are passionate about process optimization and thrive in a data-rich environment, you will find this position instrumental in shaping our operational future. We value professionals who bring technical precision to factory floor management and a commitment to data-backed decision-making.
Key highlights
- Analyze daily production throughput, yield rates, and machine uptime to identify trends and process improvement opportunities.
- Develop standardized reporting dashboards using Power BI or Tableau to visualize manufacturing KPIs for executive stakeholders.
- Collaborate with quality assurance teams to conduct root-cause analysis (RCA) on production defects and implement corrective actions.
- Lead continuous improvement workshops using Six Sigma or Kaizen methodologies to eliminate non-value-added activities in production.
What is a Production Analyst?
A Production Analyst is a data-driven manufacturing professional tasked with bridging the gap between shop-floor operations and high-level business strategy. By leveraging tools like ERP systems and advanced analytics, a Production Analyst evaluates key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify bottlenecks, reduce waste, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Their deep understanding of lean manufacturing principles and production planning ensures that facilities maintain high throughput while strictly adhering to quality and safety standards.
What does a Production Analyst do?
On a typical day, a Production Analyst reviews real-time production data from HMI/SCADA systems to track output against daily targets and investigate deviations. They utilize SQL or Excel-based modeling to forecast material requirements, collaborate with maintenance teams to prioritize machine uptime, and draft performance reports for plant leadership. By participating in continuous improvement projects, they help translate complex manufacturing data into actionable insights that refine workflows, minimize downtime, and increase long-term profitability.
Key responsibilities
- Analyze daily production throughput, yield rates, and machine uptime to identify trends and process improvement opportunities.
- Maintain and reconcile inventory records within the ERP system to ensure accurate material availability for production schedules.
- Develop standardized reporting dashboards using Power BI or Tableau to visualize manufacturing KPIs for executive stakeholders.
- Collaborate with quality assurance teams to conduct root-cause analysis (RCA) on production defects and implement corrective actions.
- Optimize manufacturing workflow layouts to reduce cycle times and minimize material handling waste during daily operations.
- Coordinate with supply chain planners to adjust production sequences based on raw material delivery timelines and customer demand.
- Conduct time-and-motion studies on manual assembly processes to establish accurate standard hours and improve labor utilization.
- Lead continuous improvement workshops using Six Sigma or Kaizen methodologies to eliminate non-value-added activities in production.
Requirements and skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a closely related technical field.
- 3+ years of experience working in a production environment, specifically within discrete or process manufacturing sectors.
- Advanced proficiency in ERP software such as SAP, Oracle NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics 365 for production scheduling.
- Strong technical skills in data analysis using Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables) and SQL for database querying.
- Demonstrated expertise in Lean Manufacturing, 5S, or Six Sigma Green Belt certification for process optimization.
- Ability to interpret technical blueprints and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure strict adherence to quality standards.
- Proven experience facilitating cross-departmental projects involving maintenance, procurement, and production floor supervisors.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 or equivalent quality management systems and industrial safety regulations (OSHA standards).
FAQs
What does a Production Analyst do on a daily basis?
A Production Analyst focuses on interpreting data to ensure manufacturing efficiency remains at peak levels. Daily tasks include reconciling production output reports, monitoring real-time OEE metrics, addressing material shortages, and communicating schedule adjustments to the shop-floor managers. They act as the vital link between raw performance data and the strategic goals of the plant management team.
What are the essential skills for a Production Analyst?
A successful Production Analyst requires a blend of technical data analysis skills and practical manufacturing knowledge. Key skills include mastery of ERP and BI software (like SAP or Power BI), a deep understanding of Six Sigma or lean manufacturing methodologies, and the ability to conduct rigorous root-cause analysis. Strong interpersonal skills are also essential to facilitate collaboration between production staff and engineering or procurement teams.
Who does a Production Analyst work with in a manufacturing facility?
A Production Analyst works closely with a variety of departments to keep operations flowing smoothly. Their primary interactions are with the production supervisor, quality assurance lead, supply chain planners, and maintenance teams. By maintaining this cross-functional collaboration, they ensure that production data reflects the real-world operational challenges faced by these teams on the factory floor.
How does a Production Analyst add value to a company?
The Production Analyst adds value by systematically identifying inefficiencies that cost the company money and time. By reducing scrap rates, optimizing machine utilization, and ensuring inventory accuracy, they help significantly lower operational costs and increase output. Their ability to provide clear, actionable insights through reporting empowers leadership to make informed decisions that improve the bottom line and overall plant competitiveness.