Career roadmap
How to Become a Production Planner
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a production planner, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a production planner: (1) finish high school, (2) work in a plant, (3) move into scheduling, (4) earn the CPIM, (5) advance. Most people need about Several months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a production planner
Finish high school
Or GED.
Work in a plant
Learn production.
Move into scheduling
Planner role.
Earn the CPIM
Credential.
Advance
Planning manager.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; supply chain courses help.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Several months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- APICS CPIM: Production and inventory management.
- CSCP: Supply chain professional.
- Excel certification: Helpful.
- Lean training: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with production scheduling, mrp and erp systems, and inventory control, and practice organization and communication. Learning the production planner vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Production Clerk: Entry.
- Production Planner: Schedule.
- Senior Planner: Lead planning.
- Planning Manager: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Production Planner training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do production planners need a degree?
Not always; experience counts.
How long does it take to become a production planner?
Most people need about Several months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; supply chain courses help.
Do you need a degree to be a production planner?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for production planners?
Common credentials include APICS CPIM, CSCP, Excel certification, and Lean training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-5061 (Production, planning, and expediting clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Production, planning, and expediting clerks (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.