How To Become A Production Control Analyst In Iowa 2024
Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Production Control Analyst, including salary, schools, and programs.
Production Control Analyst in Iowa Career Overview
As a Production Control Analyst, you play a vital role in the manufacturing and production sectors, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently. Your responsibilities revolve around the planning, coordination, and execution of production activities. You analyze data related to inventory levels, production schedules, and resource allocation to optimize the workflow and address potential bottlenecks.
Key elements of your role include:
- Data Analysis: You interpret production data to identify trends, forecast needs, and suggest improvements.
- Resource Management: You ensure that materials and resources are available when needed, contributing to a seamless production process.
- Collaboration: You work closely with various departments, including manufacturing, supply chain, and quality assurance, to align production goals with company objectives.
- Problem Solving: You address challenges that arise in the production process, implementing solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
- Reporting: You prepare detailed reports and presentations to communicate production status and performance metrics to management and stakeholders.
In this field, your analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure are essential. The effectiveness of your contributions helps improve productivity, reduce costs, and ensure that the final products meet quality standards and customer expectations.
Best Schools to become a Production Control Analyst near Iowa 2024
Purdue University Global
Ivy Tech Community College
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Production Control Analyst Salary in Iowa
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Production Control Analyst in Iowa
To pursue a career as a Production Control Analyst, you will typically need to complete a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Here are some specific degree programs that are beneficial for this role:
Business Administration and Management
This program provides a solid foundation in business concepts, covering essential topics like finance, marketing, and organizational behavior, all of which are vital in production control.Operations Management and Supervision
This degree focuses directly on managing operations, production processes, and supply chain dynamics, equipping you with specialized knowledge for this field.Management Information Systems and Services
This program combines business and technology, emphasizing data management and systems analysis, crucial for making informed decisions in production control.Industrial Production Technologies
This degree focuses on the technology and methods used in production environments, providing insight into manufacturing processes and efficiency improvement.Manufacturing Engineering Technology
This program offers a blend of engineering principles and practical applications, focusing on the design, operation, and management of manufacturing systems.
In addition to obtaining a degree, you might also consider internships or cooperative education experiences related to production environments to enhance your knowledge and practical understanding.
Best Schools to become a Production Control Analyst near Iowa 2024
Purdue University Global
Ivy Tech Community College
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
- Coordinate and expedite the flow of work and materials within or between departments of an establishment according to production schedule.
- Duties include reviewing and distributing production, work, and shipment schedules; conferring with department supervisors to determine progress of work and completion dates; and compiling reports on progress of work, inventory levels, costs, and production problems.
Production Control Analyst Required Skills and Competencies in Iowa
Analytical Skills: You need to analyze complex data sets and determine trends, which will help in making informed production decisions.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail is essential, as you will be responsible for ensuring accuracy in production schedules, inventory levels, and order fulfillment.
Problem-Solving: You will often face challenges that require quick thinking and innovative solutions to optimize production processes.
Organizational Skills: Maintaining an organized workflow is critical. You should be adept at managing multiple tasks and timelines simultaneously.
Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary to convey information clearly to different teams, including production, procurement, and logistics.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with production management software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is important for monitoring and coordinating production activities.
Project Management: You should have the ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects, ensuring they meet deadlines and budgets.
Team Collaboration: Working comfortably within cross-functional teams and fostering a cooperative and efficient work environment is key to achieving common goals.
Knowledge of Supply Chain Management: A solid understanding of supply chain principles will help you optimize inventory levels and improve production efficiency.
Time Management: You must effectively prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and ensure smooth production operations.
Job Duties for Production Control Analysts
Distribute production schedules or work orders to departments.
Review documents, such as production schedules, work orders, or staffing tables, to determine personnel or materials requirements or material priorities.
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.
Data base user interface and query software
- Airtable
- Oracle Database
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Oracle PeopleSoft
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
- Bill of lading software
- Waterloo Hydrogeologic TACTIC
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Production Control Analyst in Iowa
The job market for Production Control Analysts in Iowa is currently experiencing a favorable trend, driven by the state’s robust manufacturing sector. As companies strive for efficiency and cost-effectiveness in their operations, the demand for skilled analysts to oversee and improve production processes is increasing.
Growth potential in this field is optimistic, with projections indicating a steady rise in job openings over the next several years. As Iowa continues to attract new manufacturing businesses and support existing ones, Production Control Analysts will be essential in ensuring smooth operations and optimal resource management.
Geographical hotspots in Iowa where opportunities are particularly abundant include:
- Des Moines: As the state capital, Des Moines is a central business hub with numerous manufacturing and logistics firms. This area is a key player in the job market for Production Control Analysts.
- Cedar Rapids: Known for its diverse industrial base, Cedar Rapids has a strong demand for production control professionals who can help local companies enhance their supply chain and production workflows.
- Davenport: This area also hosts a range of manufacturing facilities, creating a continuous need for Production Control Analysts to manage complexities in production operations.
Small to mid-sized manufacturing companies across Iowa are increasingly recognizing the value of production control roles, further expanding job opportunities. These organizations often seek individuals who can bring innovative solutions to streamline operations and enhance productivity.
Industries such as food processing, machinery manufacturing, and transportation are leading contributors to job openings for Production Control Analysts. The ongoing evolution of these sectors, alongside advancements in technology and automation, suggests a stable and promising future for professionals in this field.
You can enhance your job prospects by monitoring industry trends, networking within local manufacturing associations, and leveraging job boards that focus specifically on Iowa's manufacturing landscape.
Top Related Careers to Production Control Analyst 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Production Control Analyst in Iowa
American Production and Inventory Management (APICS)
Explore educational resources, certifications, and networking opportunities focused on production and inventory management.
APICS WebsiteAssociation for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Gain access to a wealth of materials related to supply chain management, including articles, webinars, and training programs relevant to production control.
ASCM WebsiteInstitute for Supply Management (ISM)
Find tools and resources to enhance your knowledge in supply management, including industry insights and best practices applicable to production control analysts.
ISM WebsiteSociety of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
Access a range of resources including research publications, seminars, and industry news that pertain to manufacturing and production processes.
SME WebsiteProject Management Institute (PMI)
Learn about project management methodologies and resources which can be beneficial for production control and project efficiency.
PMI WebsiteManufacturing Institute
Utilize resources aimed at advancing manufacturing workforce development and education, including reports and industry trends relevant to production control.
Manufacturing Institute WebsiteThe Balance Careers
Find career information, salary data, and job descriptions specifically related to production control analysts and similar roles in the manufacturing sector.
The Balance CareersLinkedIn Learning
Access a variety of online courses on production control, inventory management, and related software that will enhance your skills and knowledge in the field.
LinkedIn LearningNational Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
Stay informed about industry standards, legislative updates, and best practices in manufacturing, with resources that directly impact production control.
NAM WebsiteBureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Review labor market data, salary outlook, and job growth projections for production control analysts and related occupations.
BLS Website
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Production Control Analyst in Iowa
What responsibilities does a Production Control Analyst have?
A Production Control Analyst is responsible for monitoring and managing production schedules, coordinating resources, analyzing inventory levels, and ensuring that production processes are efficient. You will also work on identifying bottlenecks and implementing solutions to optimize operations.What qualifications are required to become a Production Control Analyst?
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, industrial engineering, business administration, or a related field is required. Familiarity with production management software and strong analytical skills are essential.What skills are important for a Production Control Analyst?
Important skills include analytical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and proficiency in data analysis tools. Effective communication and organizational skills are also vital, as you will collaborate with various departments.What software do Production Control Analysts commonly use?
Analysts often use Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, such as SAP or Oracle, along with project management software and data analysis tools like Microsoft Excel. Familiarity with scheduling software may also be beneficial.What industries employ Production Control Analysts?
Production Control Analysts are employed in various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and automotive sectors, where production and supply chain management are critical.What is the salary range for Production Control Analysts in Iowa?
Salaries for Production Control Analysts in Iowa typically range from $55,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and specific responsibilities. These figures can vary based on the size of the organization.Can Production Control Analysts work remotely?
Many companies offer flexible work arrangements, allowing Production Control Analysts to work remotely, at least part-time. However, this may depend on the specific role and the organization’s policies.What career advancement opportunities exist for Production Control Analysts?
With experience, you can advance to managerial positions, such as Production Manager, Supply Chain Manager, or Operations Manager. Continuing education and professional certifications can also enhance your career prospects.How can I gain experience as a Production Control Analyst?
Consider internships or co-op programs while in college, and seek entry-level positions in production, supply chain, or inventory management roles. Gaining experience in data analysis and project management will also be beneficial.What certifications are beneficial for a Production Control Analyst?
Certifications such as Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) can provide you with advanced knowledge and make you more competitive in the job market.