External Job Description

LAHAB Defence Systems (LDS) specialises in designing, developing, and producing medium- and large-calibre munitions and weapon systems. As the UAE’s sole manufacturer in this field, LDS brings over 25 years of expertise to defence and security partners across the MENA region. The company’s legacy is built on advanced engineering, strict quality standards, and mission-ready solutions.

The Sr. Planning Specialist is responsible for preparing a dynamic master production schedule covering raw materials, equipment, manpower, production timelines, and delivery/PDI to customers. The role develops the most suitable and economically viable integrated planning process across projects and customer contracts, supports the Planning Manager in strategic planning, and maintains an effective production schedule that meets customer requirements while minimizing shortages and avoiding unnecessary surplus.

Key Functional Responsibilities

• Monitor forecasts, master production schedules, delivery/PDI, and production schedules.
• Coordinate with BDS, Stores & Logistics, Procurement, and Production teams.
• Lead production planning, scheduling, and forecasting activities.
• Provide insights to improve efficiency and reduce cost.
• Prioritize operations to ensure maximum performance and minimal delays.
• Determine manpower, equipment, and raw materials required for production demand.
• Prepare and update MRP and Bills of Materials in ERP.
• Prepare, release, and monitor production orders/job cards in ERP.
• Prepare production and storage forecast reports.
• Ensure effective communication across departments to maintain achievable production.
• Prepare and update production/delivery dashboards for management.
• Inform internal customers of production changes.
• Maintain production schedules aligned with customer requirements.
• Integrate world-class safety, health, and environmental standards into processes.
• Assist in monthly production forecasts.
• Confirm delivery dates with the BDS Department.
• Create weekly production schedules and coordinate with Team Leaders.
• Monitor material supply, identify discrepancies between forecasts, sales cycles, inventory, and WIP, and recommend purchasing adjustments.
• Check status of in-stock or scheduled components.
• Achieve 100% accuracy in delivery timelines and information provided to team members.
• Ensure legal compliance and reduce risk of non-compliance.
• Advise managers on best-practice policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality, uphold company values, and supervise junior staff.

Key HSE Responsibilities

• Follow OSH instructions and safe working procedures.
• Use appropriate PPE and safety systems.
• Be familiar with emergency and evacuation procedures.
• Avoid actions that endanger health and safety.
• Assist with risk assessments.
• Report OSH hazards, incidents, and issues.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in manufacturing, particularly in production planning, operations, scheduling, and forecasting.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, preferably in the defence industry.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong skills in sales forecasting and trend analysis.
• Fluent in Arabic and English

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