Efficient Master Scheduler Job Description

The master scheduler job description calls for an individual who is highly organized and understands the processes that drive a supply chain. He or she often works for a large manufacturing facility but may also be employed in hospital, a prison or another large privately-owned or government facility.

Position Description

The master scheduler is slated with the task of ensuring that all of the various processes and timelines for a company’s industry are followed closely for the most efficient results possible.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Master Scheduler

• Maintains various reporting systems for ensuring that documentation is accurate and timely.
• Creates production schedules daily and ensures that output is recorded into the correct system.
• Communicates with customers when there are significant variations in product demand.
• Communicates demand information across a facility so that everyone is aware of volume and metrics.
• Reconciles inaccuracies with customer shipments and deliveries.
• Ensures that employees receive schedules in a timely manner and that any discrepancies—call-outs, illnesses and FMLA claims—are accounted for and covered.
• Works directly with employees to resolve scheduling issues.
• Works with vendors to ensure that supply needs are met.
• Documents key information for analysis which includes downtime, peak production, inventory accuracy and scheduling accuracy.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates the ability to use a computer and various database programs—including Microsoft Excel—proficiently.
• Understands how to document production goals and deviations from these goals on a regular basis.
• Shows the ability to understand customer demand and how to alter production so that this demand is met.
• Has the ability to adequately act as a liaison between vendors, customers and laborers as well as other departments within the company.
• Demonstrates at least basic knowledge of supply chain activities.
• Shows that he or she can work efficiently under pressure and help motivate employees to meet demands.

Education and Experience

A master scheduler plays a very important role in manufacturing, and his or her actions can have a huge impact on his or her employer’s success. As such, while no degree or education outside of a high school diploma or its equivalent is required, employers often prefer candidates who have Associate’s or Bachelor’s degrees in a business field. Individuals should have experience in inventory control, production, manufacturing and scheduling in order to be considered. Many companies are willing to train candidates on the job if they show that they have ample experience.

Work Environment

The master scheduler typically works in a climate controlled office environment, but he or she may need to make trips onto the production floor in order to meet with foremen, employees and others to discuss production and scheduling. There are very few physical demands, but the job can be mentally challenging at times—particularly when there is a significant increase in demand or when the production team is not meeting demand.

Salary

The average master scheduler salary in the US is about $68,100 per year. Like many other industries, those who are well-educated and have experience with the position typically earn the most while those who are just starting out earn the least. It is also important to consider that those who are employed with large companies and who must schedule thousands of individuals will earn much more than those who work in smaller facilities.