Global Equipment Planner

Global Equipment Planner Join to apply for the Global Equipment Planner role at Align Technology. This senior‑level operations planning professional is part of the Global Planning team. The role shapes and executes the global equipment strategy, driving operational excellence and supporting business scalability. Description The planner partners with global planning, production management, engineering, and vendors to optimize equipment allocation, utilization, and performance across all manufacturing sites. The position is fully based onsite, 5 days per week, in Rotkreuz (EMEA HQ). Key Responsibilities Develop and implement strategic equipment capacity plans to support production goals and future growth, measured by utilization rates and on‑time installations. Analyze plant demand and production forecasts to identify capacity constraints and recommend solutions. Lead cross‑functional planning workshops with manufacturing plants, production management, and the Global Engineering Director to align on equipment upgrades, improvement projects, and new equipment needs. Serve as the primary liaison between manufacturing sites and equipment vendors for procurement, installation, and maintenance. Manage the allocation of equipment across global manufacturing plants based on master production schedules, ensuring optimal utilization and minimal downtime. Monitor equipment performance and utilization metrics, identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements and process enhancements. Provide data‑driven insights to support capital expenditure planning, including recommendations for equipment investments and upgrades. Prepare business cases and ROI analyses for proposed equipment purchases and improvements. Lead change initiatives related to equipment upgrades and process improvements, including stakeholder communication and training. Drive continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies. Skills, Knowledge & Expertise Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field. Minimum 5 years of experience in equipment planning, capacity planning, or manufacturing operations, preferably in medical device or high‑tech sectors. Proven track record of managing multiple projects related to equipment allocation, process improvements, and facility expansions. Advanced proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and data analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau). Strong understanding of production planning, equipment procurement, and manufacturing processes. Knowledge of automation technologies and manufacturing process optimization. APICS or CPIM certification strongly preferred. Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a data‑driven approach to decision‑making. Strong communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills. Adaptability and a global mindset to thrive in a fast‑paced, cross‑cultural environment. Experience leading cross‑site planning workshops and change management initiatives. Experience working with global teams and external vendors. Occasional international travel may be required. Applicant Privacy Policy Review our Applicant Privacy Policy for additional information. Equal Opportunity Statement Align Technology is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all our practices, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protected veteran status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other legally protected category. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the country for which they are applying, and employment eligibility will be verified as a condition of hire. Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Other Medical Equipment Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr