Production Coordinators
Overview
Production coordinators are the behind-the-scenes organizers who make sure everything runs smoothly in manufacturing and production facilities. They create and distribute work schedules, track materials and supplies, coordinate with different departments and suppliers, and solve problems when delays or shortages occur. Using digital scheduling software and inventory management systems, they monitor production progress and adjust plans as needed to meet deadlines. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in fast-paced, collaborative environments where teamwork is essential.

Did you know?
Production Coordinators in the US can specialize in diverse sectors like entertainment, manufacturing, or events, with each requiring specific industry knowledge and networking.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$56,937.84 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Active Learning
Key Responsibilities
- Record production data, including volume produced, consumption of raw materials, or quality control measures.
- Confer with department supervisors or other personnel to assess progress and discuss needed changes.
- Compile information, such as production rates and progress, materials inventories, materials used, or customer information, so that status reports can be completed.
- Confer with establishment personnel, vendors, or customers to coordinate production or shipping activities and to resolve complaints or eliminate delays.
- Establish and prepare product construction directions and locations and information on required tools, materials, equipment, numbers of workers needed, and cost projections.
- Contact suppliers to verify shipment details.
- Provide documentation and information to account for delays, difficulties, or changes to cost estimates.
- Calculate figures, such as required amounts of labor or materials, manufacturing costs, or wages, using pricing schedules, adding machines, calculators, or computers.
- Arrange for delivery, assembly, or distribution of supplies or parts to expedite flow of materials and meet production schedules.
- Examine documents, materials, or products and monitor work processes to assess completeness, accuracy, and conformance to standards and specifications.
- Plan production commitments or timetables for business units, specific programs, or jobs, using sales forecasts.
- Review documents, such as production schedules, work orders, or staffing tables, to determine personnel or materials requirements or material priorities.
- Distribute production schedules or work orders to departments.
- Requisition and maintain inventories of materials or supplies necessary to meet production demands.
- Maintain files, such as maintenance records, bills of lading, or cost reports.
- Compile and prepare documentation related to production sequences, transportation, personnel schedules, or purchase, maintenance, or repair orders.
- Revise production schedules when required due to design changes, labor or material shortages, backlogs, or other interruptions, collaborating with management, marketing, sales, production, or engineering.
Career Considerations
Industry Specialization
Production Coordinators in the US can specialize in diverse sectors like entertainment, manufacturing, or events, with each requiring specific industry knowledge and networking.
Educational Requirements
Most positions prefer a bachelor's degree in business, communications, or related field, though experience and certifications in project management can be equally valuable.
Career Advancement Potential
The role typically serves as a stepping stone to production management or operations management positions, with salary ranges from $35,000 to $65,000 annually depending on industry and location.