Outsourced Production Coordinator

Position Overview

The Outsourced Production Coordinator is responsible for managing all outsourced manufacturing and production activities after work has been awarded by Planet Direct. This position serves as the primary liaison between Planet Direct and its external production partners, ensuring purchase orders are issued accurately, production schedules are coordinated, proofs and specifications are reviewed and approved, quantities are verified, and projects are completed on time, within budget, and to Planet Direct's quality standards.

This role requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously while building strong relationships with outside production partners and internal departments.

Key Responsibilities

Production Partner Management

• Build and maintain strong professional relationships with outsourced production partners.
• Serve as the primary day-to-day contact after work has been awarded.
• Monitor vendor performance, responsiveness, quality and on-time delivery.

Production Coordination

• Generate and issue purchase orders to approved vendors.
• Verify specifications, quantities, shipping instructions and delivery requirements.
• Coordinate production schedules and shipping commitments.
• Review and coordinate proof approvals.
• Verify print counts, overs/unders and production quantities.
• Resolve production issues and communicate changes internally.

Internal Collaboration

• Work closely with Estimating, Client Services, Production, Scheduling and Shipping.
• Provide timely project status updates.
• Ensure outsourced production supports customer commitments.

Process Improvement

• Maintain complete production records and documentation.
• Track vendor quality, delivery and service metrics.
• Recommend workflow improvements for outsourced production.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of commercial print production, purchasing, planning, or vendor coordination experience.
• Strong knowledge of commercial printing, bindery, mailing and manufacturing processes.
• Experience reviewing proofs, specifications and purchase orders.
• Excellent organizational, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office; familiarity with iQuote, P3 or similar systems preferred.

Work Environment

Professional office environment with occasional time in the manufacturing plant.

Physical Demands

Regular sitting, standing, walking and occasional lifting up to 20 pounds.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

Full-time. Generally 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Travel

Minimal travel; occasional visits to production partners if required.

Required Education and Experience

High school diploma or GED. Experience in Direct Mail estimating, planning, production or account management preferred.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

Must pass background check and drug test.

Work Authorization

Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Print Production: 3 years (Required)
• Purchasing: 3 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person