OPT Production Scheduler Jobs
Production Scheduler jobs on OPT involve coordinating manufacturing timelines, managing inventory flow, and aligning production output with demand forecasts. Most roles require a degree in supply chain, industrial engineering, or operations management. Your 12-month OPT period is sufficient for most contract-to-hire tracks, and STEM OPT extension applies if your degree qualifies.
Find OPT Production Scheduler JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 21+ Production Scheduler jobs
See all Production Scheduler Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Production Scheduler roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Cascade Engineering is a Family of Companies that invests in our triple bottom line philosophy - People, Planet and Profit. We have been in business for over 50 years in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer compounding, waste and recycling industries. We focus on driving organizational excellence through a people centered leadership culture based on the principles of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
Are you looking for a positive and encouraging environment? Are you seeking a position where you are included, recognized and celebrated? You belong here! Are you excited for what is ahead? We are too!
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Senior Production Scheduler, you'll be at heart of the action, keeping our production engine moving at full speed. You’ll turn customer demand into smart, achievable schedules while staying one step ahead of potential disruptions. Working cross functionally, you’ll align teams, solve problems quickly, and ensure priorities are clear and executed. Whether you’re adjusting plans, communicating updates, or improving processes, you’ll bring a proactive, solutions-focused mindset that keeps everything moving forward. Your work will directly impact our ability to deliver on time and exceed expectations.
Location: Buursma Plant at 4950 37th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49512
Shift: Days
Target Pay: The target starting base salary for this position is $52,000 - $80,080.00 / year (plus quarterly bonus incentive). Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Cascade Engineering considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Planning and scheduling of production orders in QAD to support customer requirements. Order can be received via email, paper, sales team, customer service, or EDI
- Document customer related communication with follow up as required
- Review and verify that EDI orders and releases are properly processed, correcting errors and communicating to others for correction if needed
- Collaborate with shipping, logistics and customer service to meet delivery commitments
- Partner with quality, engineering, and program management to resolve issues impacting production or delivery
- Communicate schedule changes, risks, and constraints to plant leadership and cross-functional teams
- Manage hot stamp die ordering
- Maintain accurate systems data (orders, lead times, BOM alignment)
- Participating in inventory activities as required, including part number set up
- Communicate with campus peers regarding shared resources
- Participate as needed in internal problem solving / RIE / Lean activities
- Key in on-time delivery information as required
- Member of the launch team representing the Materials Dept
- Communication with customers on all issues pertaining to orders and shipping dates - including requirements outside of prior agreed upon lead times
- Perform additional duties as needed to support business goals
CULTURE BEARER
- Understands and supports the values of the Triple Bottom Line (TBL)
- Exhibits high moral and ethical standards and high integrity
- Values people regardless of their background
- Exhibits the traits of a servant leader
- Exhibit the principles of 7 Habits and Emotional Intelligence
- Encourages open dialogue and communication
- Develops high trust relationships within all levels of the organization
- Pursues Excellence
At Cascade Engineering, we welcome and celebrate diversity and inclusion. We are committed to fostering an authentic workplace where everyone belongs and thrives, and we look forward to welcoming candidates who are enthusiastic about contributing to our community. If you are passionate about this role, we encourage you to apply. We recognize that women and people of color are often underrepresented in manufacturing and want to see this change. When making hiring decisions, we believe in considering the whole person and the life experiences they bring to our teams. Our diversity drives our innovation and has been integral to our success.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply chain, Operations, Business, or a related field plus 3 years of experience OR High School Diploma/GED with 7+ years of relevant experience in production scheduling, planning, or materials management within a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production flow
- Proven ability to anticipate issues, identify risks, and proactively develop solutions
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally across the organization
- Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure while managing shifting priorities
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business Administration (MBA), or a related field
- Experience with ERP systems (QAD experience)
- Advanced Excel skills, including data analysis, reporting, and capacity planning tools
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement, or problem-solving methodologies
- Experience supporting new product launches or program ramp-ups
- Proven ability to manage complex schedules with multiple constraints and competing priorities
- APICS certification (CPIM or CSCP) or similar supply chain certification
BENEFITS
- Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - Starting on Day 1
- Life Insurance (Company Paid and Supplemental)
- 401K with match – Starting on Day 1
- Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
- Quarterly Bonus Program
- Paid Time Off
- Employee Assistance Program
- Short-and-Long Term Disability (Company Paid)
- Onsite Health Clinic
PERKS
- Weekly Pay
- Childcare Assistance (Tri-Share)
- Flexible Hours & Scheduling
- Attendance Recognition Program
- Voucher programs for Safety Shoes and Prescription Safety Glasses
- Employee Discount Programs
- Employee Referral & Retention Bonus Program
- Adoption Assistance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Free Uniforms / T-shirts
- Employee Resource Groups
- Smoking Cessation Products and Program
INTRODUCTION
Cascade Engineering is a Family of Companies that invests in our triple bottom line philosophy - People, Planet and Profit. We have been in business for over 50 years in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer compounding, waste and recycling industries. We focus on driving organizational excellence through a people centered leadership culture based on the principles of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
Are you looking for a positive and encouraging environment? Are you seeking a position where you are included, recognized and celebrated? You belong here! Are you excited for what is ahead? We are too!
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Senior Production Scheduler, you'll be at heart of the action, keeping our production engine moving at full speed. You’ll turn customer demand into smart, achievable schedules while staying one step ahead of potential disruptions. Working cross functionally, you’ll align teams, solve problems quickly, and ensure priorities are clear and executed. Whether you’re adjusting plans, communicating updates, or improving processes, you’ll bring a proactive, solutions-focused mindset that keeps everything moving forward. Your work will directly impact our ability to deliver on time and exceed expectations.
Location: Buursma Plant at 4950 37th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49512
Shift: Days
Target Pay: The target starting base salary for this position is $52,000 - $80,080.00 / year (plus quarterly bonus incentive). Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Cascade Engineering considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Planning and scheduling of production orders in QAD to support customer requirements. Order can be received via email, paper, sales team, customer service, or EDI
- Document customer related communication with follow up as required
- Review and verify that EDI orders and releases are properly processed, correcting errors and communicating to others for correction if needed
- Collaborate with shipping, logistics and customer service to meet delivery commitments
- Partner with quality, engineering, and program management to resolve issues impacting production or delivery
- Communicate schedule changes, risks, and constraints to plant leadership and cross-functional teams
- Manage hot stamp die ordering
- Maintain accurate systems data (orders, lead times, BOM alignment)
- Participating in inventory activities as required, including part number set up
- Communicate with campus peers regarding shared resources
- Participate as needed in internal problem solving / RIE / Lean activities
- Key in on-time delivery information as required
- Member of the launch team representing the Materials Dept
- Communication with customers on all issues pertaining to orders and shipping dates - including requirements outside of prior agreed upon lead times
- Perform additional duties as needed to support business goals
CULTURE BEARER
- Understands and supports the values of the Triple Bottom Line (TBL)
- Exhibits high moral and ethical standards and high integrity
- Values people regardless of their background
- Exhibits the traits of a servant leader
- Exhibit the principles of 7 Habits and Emotional Intelligence
- Encourages open dialogue and communication
- Develops high trust relationships within all levels of the organization
- Pursues Excellence
At Cascade Engineering, we welcome and celebrate diversity and inclusion. We are committed to fostering an authentic workplace where everyone belongs and thrives, and we look forward to welcoming candidates who are enthusiastic about contributing to our community. If you are passionate about this role, we encourage you to apply. We recognize that women and people of color are often underrepresented in manufacturing and want to see this change. When making hiring decisions, we believe in considering the whole person and the life experiences they bring to our teams. Our diversity drives our innovation and has been integral to our success.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply chain, Operations, Business, or a related field plus 3 years of experience OR High School Diploma/GED with 7+ years of relevant experience in production scheduling, planning, or materials management within a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production flow
- Proven ability to anticipate issues, identify risks, and proactively develop solutions
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally across the organization
- Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure while managing shifting priorities
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business Administration (MBA), or a related field
- Experience with ERP systems (QAD experience)
- Advanced Excel skills, including data analysis, reporting, and capacity planning tools
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement, or problem-solving methodologies
- Experience supporting new product launches or program ramp-ups
- Proven ability to manage complex schedules with multiple constraints and competing priorities
- APICS certification (CPIM or CSCP) or similar supply chain certification
BENEFITS
- Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - Starting on Day 1
- Life Insurance (Company Paid and Supplemental)
- 401K with match – Starting on Day 1
- Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
- Quarterly Bonus Program
- Paid Time Off
- Employee Assistance Program
- Short-and-Long Term Disability (Company Paid)
- Onsite Health Clinic
PERKS
- Weekly Pay
- Childcare Assistance (Tri-Share)
- Flexible Hours & Scheduling
- Attendance Recognition Program
- Voucher programs for Safety Shoes and Prescription Safety Glasses
- Employee Discount Programs
- Employee Referral & Retention Bonus Program
- Adoption Assistance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Free Uniforms / T-shirts
- Employee Resource Groups
- Smoking Cessation Products and Program
See all OPT Production Scheduler Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Production Scheduler Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Production Scheduler
Target manufacturers with established OPT hiring pipelines
Large manufacturers in automotive, electronics, and consumer goods regularly hire international students for scheduling roles. Companies with existing OPT hires already understand work authorization timelines and are less likely to pass on a strong candidate over status concerns.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension
Industrial engineering, supply chain management, and operations research degrees typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Verifying this before interviews lets you tell employers you have up to three years of work authorization, which significantly reduces their sponsorship urgency.
Lead with ERP and scheduling software proficiency
Employers screening Production Scheduler candidates prioritize hands-on experience with SAP, Oracle, or similar ERP systems. Listing specific modules you have used, such as SAP PP or Oracle SCM, helps hiring managers see you as immediately productive rather than a training investment.
Address your OPT timeline proactively in cover letters
Briefly stating your authorization period and STEM extension eligibility in your cover letter removes ambiguity early. Hiring managers unfamiliar with OPT often assume international candidates require immediate H-1B visa sponsorship, so a clear one-sentence explanation prevents unnecessary rejections before the interview stage.
Focus on supply chain roles at companies that sponsor H-1B visas
Production Scheduler positions at companies with a history of H-1B filings in operations and logistics are your best long-term option. Reviewing public H-1B disclosure data for job titles like Production Planner or Supply Chain Analyst helps you identify employers likely to sponsor after OPT.
Quantify scheduling outcomes on your resume
Hiring managers for these roles respond to measurable results. Citing specific improvements in on-time delivery rates, reduction in production downtime, or inventory accuracy from internships or academic projects makes your resume stand out against candidates with similar academic backgrounds.
Production Scheduler OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Production Scheduler on OPT?
Yes, Production Scheduler roles are eligible for OPT as long as the work is directly related to your degree. Degrees in industrial engineering, supply chain management, operations research, or manufacturing engineering all have a clear connection to this role. If your degree qualifies as STEM, you may also be eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of total work authorization.
Does Production Scheduler work qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific degree, not the job title. If your degree is in industrial engineering, supply chain management, operations research, or a closely related STEM field, the work you perform as a Production Scheduler will generally satisfy the STEM OPT extension requirements. You must also work at least 20 hours per week and have a qualifying employer who submits a formal training plan through your DSO.
Do employers in manufacturing typically sponsor OPT students for Production Scheduler roles?
Many do, particularly larger manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, electronics, and consumer goods. These industries have long-standing relationships with university hiring programs and are accustomed to onboarding international students. Smaller manufacturers may be less familiar with OPT but often open to it once the process is explained. Migrate Mate lists Production Scheduler jobs filtered for OPT-friendly employers, so you can focus your search on companies already open to your status.
What happens to my Production Scheduler job if my OPT expires before H-1B approval?
If your employer files an H-1B petition on your behalf before your OPT expires, you may be eligible for a cap-gap extension that bridges the gap between OPT expiration and the H-1B start date of October 1. This extension is automatic and allows you to continue working without interruption. Your DSO can confirm your specific cap-gap status based on your I-20 and the petition filing date.
How do I find Production Scheduler jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Standard job searches often do not filter for OPT eligibility, which wastes significant time. Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and surfaces Production Scheduler roles at employers who are open to international candidates with work authorization. Filtering by STEM OPT eligibility on Migrate Mate also helps you identify roles where employers are likely to support the extension or eventual H-1B sponsorship.