Production Planner Jobs in Illinois

Job Title: Buyer-Planner / Production Supervisor Company: Greenlee Textron Location: Rockford, IL Description: Greenlee Textron is an industry leader in providing state-of-the-art technology for electrical, power utility and industrial markets. We are currently seeking the following to join our manufacturing team.Buyer-PlannerThe Buyer/Planner is responsible for planning the production control schedule, planning and procurement of raw materials, Kanban levels, inventory levels, and equipment as required. The Buyer/Planner will work closely with the distribution center, shop floor personnel, and order management to obtain, understand, and generate demand at the optimum level. The Buyer/Planner will be responsible to review requisitions and release orders to various suppliers. This position will work closely with the supply base to maximize supplier performance, and to work exception reports to manage inventory to increase our On-Time-Delivery metric. Other responsibilities include working with the Production Supervisor to maximize throughput and resources as well as assist with cycle count reconciliation. Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain or equivalent required. 3-5 years experience in a Supply Chain role (planning, scheduling, and purchasing of materials), preferably in a high volume manufacturing environment. Lean manufacturing experience preferred. SAP, ordering systems and principles preferred. Microsoft Office skills required include Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook. Please apply online at www.textron.com. Reference Requisition #29421. Production Supervisor - 2nd ShiftThis individual will be directly responsible for managing the overall equipment efficiency of specific departments including directing and integrating the use of available resources to meet established cost standards, as well as coordinating production schedules to meet production requirements. This position also plans, organizes and directs the activities of the 2nd shift employees and is responsible for the implementation of Human Resource and Industrial Relations policies in a union environment, as well as maintains effective employee morale and provides leadership to the team. Bachelor's degree required. 3+ years of manufacturing and supervision experience in a similar machining environment (e.g. CNC lathes, grinders and mills). Strong organizational, human relations and problem solving skills required. Experience in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma required Microsoft software experience required (Excel, Outlook, Word). Must be flexible to work required overtime. Prefer work experience in a union environment.Please apply online at www.textron.com. Reference Requisition #29386.Textron is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V).

Job Title: PRODUCTION PLANNER Company: Tyco Electrical & Metal Products Location: Harvey, IL Description: Tyco Electrical Metal Products (TEMP) is an industry leader in the manufacture of galvanized steel tubes and pipes, electrical conduit, armored wire and cable, metal framing systems and building components serving a wide range of construction, electrical, fire and security, mechanical and automotive applications. TEMP is current recruiting for a Production Planner for the Harvey, IL facilities.SUMMARY:This position manages the demand and supply balance for produced and or purchased products across a single or multiple sources including inventory planning and management, and distribution to drive customer service and inventory management to industry leading levels. This role ensures that the supply planning processes are executed in a quality manner and cost service tradeoffs options are considered to drive continual business improvement and control. RESPONSIBILITIES:Works with forecast analyst, sales, marketing, and manufacturing to transform agreed to sales plans into production plans or purchase plans by examining inventory, current sales, sales plans, and production capabilities. Plans, prepares, manages, and communicates both short-term and longer-term executable, time-phased production plans for manufacture of products that maximizes inventory turns and minimizes excess inventory while meeting customer requirements. Balances demand plans with the supply capability, determines risks and capabilities of product supply and controls scheduling exceptions.Conducts daily scheduling meetings with production schedulers to recommend changes to schedule to meet customer demand and communicates outcome of the discussions to all stakeholders.Supports both Make-to-Stock and Make-to-Order business processes.Contributes to the monthly Sales, Inventory and Operations Planning (SIOP) meetings.Develops and manages supply responses across a single or multiple businesses.Develops, executes, and manages an inventory plan which minimizes working capital while meeting or exceeding customer service targets. When exceptions occur, conduct root cause analysis to develop and implement corrective actions, and communicate resolutions to all relevant stakeholders.Analyze, build and maintain inventory parameters and safety stock levels in the planning systems to ensure optimal inventory plans are developed.Develop and manage distribution and deployment strategies to optimally maintain inventory levels at distribution facilities to ensure high customer service at the best possible cost. Monitor the distribution of product through the supply chain to ensure on-time delivery and high fill-rate levels. This includes the development and implementation of programs that ship product directly from production to the customer whenever possible and cost justifiable, as well as cross-streaming product among warehouses and production postponement strategies.Analyze, build and maintain distribution parameters in the planning systems to ensure optimal production plans are being developed which minimize costs.Implement “ state of the art” planning techniques and strategies using an analytical approach supported with appropriate data analysis to meet surpass customer service metrics, both at the aggregate level and at identified business customer segmentation levels.Facilitates capacity planning discussions with manufacturing and steel procurement.Ensures customers receive highest level of service by driving customer satisfaction through item availability and high order fill rate (OFR).Develops, implements, and maintains policies and procedures and demand planning systems in accordance with Global Supply Chain goals.Exhibits positive leadership traits with ability to communicate and influence at all levels of the organization.Trains and mentors other demand planning team members. Coordinates SKU rationalization and resulting inventory reductions in a manner to minimize impact on product supply.Identifies and leads efforts to drive continuous improvement in areas related to job function including reducing working capital and improving customer service levels.

Job Title: Master Production Scheduler Company: Catalent Pharma Solutions Location: Chicago, IL Description: Master Production SchedulerJob Code :322470Division :Catalent Pharma Solutions Sterile TechnologiesJob Title :Master Production SchedulerJob Type :Full-Time EmployeeShift/Hours :First Shift (Day)Location :Woodstock IL US 60098Category :Biotech/R&D/ScienceCareer Level :Experienced (Non-Manager)Education :Bachelor's Degree% of Travel Required :NoneOffer Relocation :NoJob Description :ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:The position is responsible for developing and ensuring the execution of the production plan minimizing inventory investment while supporting customer service level of 100% on-time product shipments, as well as driving process and team engagement to produce relevant and timely plans in support of horizons from 5 to 24 months (S&OP), 1 to 4 months (MPS) and 1 to 2 weeks (Finite fixed schedule).Job Requirements :SPECIFIC DUTIES, ACTIVITIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Maintain effectiveness of the Quality System.* Focused on the supply planning of customer demand requirements to achieve 100% on time delivery.* Creates and stabilizes the MPS. Responsible for communicating the plan from S&OP to finite schedule.* Provides accurate available-to-promise information to Customer Services.* Creates, develops and communicates a balanced Master Production Schedule (wk3 to wk16)* Creates S&OP supply plans (mth5 to 12) in support of the monthly review forum. Organizes, chairs and drives team engagement in the monthly supply review.* Creates a finite production schedule (wk 1 to 2) for all work centers which is 100% ‘ready to execute * Provides leadership and guidance for establishing, documenting and delivering consistent process for the overall execution of the MPS.* Responsible for measuring, leading and maintaining strong results for schedule adherence (+80%) , plan readiness (100%) and fixed schedule changes (1 or less per week)* Personally creates, promotes and delivers continuous improvement activity surrounding Master Production Scheduling and general supply chain activity.* Takes leadership role in driving key improvement initiatives for supply chain.* Provides ongoing capacity, financial and OTD reports.* Takes lead role to avoid unnecessary schedule changes to maintain stability.* Coordinates, chairs and drives team engagement at planning forums.* Key point of contact for customers on capacity and supply planning topics.* Provides ad-hoc customer schedules when required to do so.* Key Operations contact for supply, capacity and scheduling topics.* Takes lead role in the resolution of planning and scheduling issues.* Recognized back-up in the absence of the Supply Chain Director.* Actively and accurately communicates material supply needs to the Materials planner. Leads the objective of 100% materials availability.* Plays a key role in actively managing inventory levels to within agreed limits.* Other duties as assigned.POSITION REQUIREMENTSEducation and Experience: * Bachelor s Degree in supply planning, operations or related discipline.* APICS qualifications preffered.* Lean / six-sigma certification a definite advantage.* 4+ years in a direct planning or supply chain role.* Previous experience in a lead planning or supply chain role.* Hands-on experience of planning in a multi-customer, multi work-centre facility.* Experience within the Pharmaceutical industry.* Direct experience in an operational excellence / lean / six-sigma role or a direct and hands-on operational excellence project role would be an advantage.* Wider logistics, warehousing and procurement experience an advantage.Knowledge/Skills Requirements * High level of attention to detail.* High results orientation.* Exceptional communication skills both written and oral.* A full complement of business computer literacy skills.* Strong spreadsheet skills are an essential requirement.* Hands-on experience of planning via recognized ERP business system.* Hands on experience of planning via recognized APS system an advantage.* Strong problem solving and analytical skills.* Ability to work independently on multiple projects.* Works well in a team environment.* Works well under pressure and able to prioritize workloads.* Must be able to interact effectively with a variety of individuals and styles within and between departments.* Will possess strong troubleshooting and communication skills.* Will be familiar with cGMP and safe work practices.* Be organized. Maintain good records, and be able to access them rapidly. Understand where information can be found.* Be knowledgeable. Bring experience to the organization. Learn new skills; Demonstrate a willingness to share skills and information with others.* Make sound judgments. Blend knowledge and analysis with logic, active listening, and a continuing interest in simplification. Act ethically.* Demonstrate a bias toward action. Get things done. Be willing to take a position, and assert influence to drive improvement. Foster teamwork to get results.* Possess key knowledge and a deliverable understanding with regard to operational excellence, lean and six-sigma techniques. Will be able to devise and implement sustainable continuous improvement ideas based on this knowledge.* Demonstrate initiative. Develop ideas, and collect them from others. Continuously seek opportunity. Be detail oriented. Clarify issues, investigate* Demonstrated ability to read, write, and speak clear English and will also have solid math skills.Work Environment: * Fast-paced* Performance driven* Customer focused* Collaborative and inclusiveEEO:Catalent Pharma Solutions offers a competitive compensation, paid time off and benefits package including 401K and tuition reimbursement. Successful candidates must pass a background check and drug screen. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V Our equal opportunity policies and affirmative action programs are designed to ensure that all applicants and employees are considered for opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, veteran status or disability except where an accommodation is unavailable and an individual s disability is a bona fide occupational disqualification. These policies and programs cover every aspect of the employment experience: recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, layoff, recall from layoff, compensation, access to training, benefits, education, tuition assistance, company-sponsored social and recreational activities, and termination.

Job Title: Master Production Scheduler - 00 Company: Catalent Pharma Solutions Location: Chicago, IL Description: id="tms_job_322470">Master Production Scheduler - 00Job Code :322470Division :Catalent Pharma Solutions Sterile TechnologiesJob Title :Master Production Scheduler - 00Job Type :Full-Time EmployeeShift/Hours :First Shift (Day)Location :Woodstock IL US 60098Category :Biotech/R&D/ScienceCareer Level :Experienced (Non-Manager)Education :Bachelor's Degree% of Travel Required :NoneOffer Relocation :NoJob Description :ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:The position is responsible for developing and ensuring the execution of the production plan minimizing inventory investment while supporting customer service level of 100% on-time product shipments, as well as driving process and team engagement to produce relevant and timely plans in support of horizons from 5 to 24 months (S&OP), 1 to 4 months (MPS) and 1 to 2 weeks (Finite fixed schedule).Job Requirements :SPECIFIC DUTIES, ACTIVITIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Maintain effectiveness of the Quality System.* Focused on the supply planning of customer demand requirements to achieve 100% on time delivery.* Creates and stabilizes the MPS. Responsible for communicating the plan from S&OP to finite schedule.* Provides accurate available-to-promise information to Customer Services.* Creates, develops and communicates a balanced Master Production Schedule (wk3 to wk16)* Creates S&OP supply plans (mth5 to 12) in support of the monthly review forum. Organizes, chairs and drives team engagement in the monthly supply review.* Creates a finite production schedule (wk 1 to 2) for all work centers which is 100% ‘ready to execute * Provides leadership and guidance for establishing, documenting and delivering consistent process for the overall execution of the MPS.* Responsible for measuring, leading and maintaining strong results for schedule adherence (+80%) , plan readiness (100%) and fixed schedule changes (1 or less per week)* Personally creates, promotes and delivers continuous improvement activity surrounding Master Production Scheduling and general supply chain activity.* Takes leadership role in driving key improvement initiatives for supply chain.* Provides ongoing capacity, financial and OTD reports.* Takes lead role to avoid unnecessary schedule changes to maintain stability.* Coordinates, chairs and drives team engagement at planning forums.* Key point of contact for customers on capacity and supply planning topics.* Provides ad-hoc customer schedules when required to do so.* Key Operations contact for supply, capacity and scheduling topics.* Takes lead role in the resolution of planning and scheduling issues.* Recognized back-up in the absence of the Supply Chain Director.* Actively and accurately communicates material supply needs to the Materials planner. Leads the objective of 100% materials availability.* Plays a key role in actively managing inventory levels to within agreed limits.* Other duties as assigned.POSITION REQUIREMENTSEducation and Experience: * Bachelor s Degree in supply planning, operations or related discipline.* APICS qualifications preffered.* Lean / six-sigma certification a definite advantage.* 4+ years in a direct planning or supply chain role.* Previous experience in a lead planning or supply chain role.* Hands-on experience of planning in a multi-customer, multi work-centre facility.* Experience within the Pharmaceutical industry.* Direct experience in an operational excellence / lean / six-sigma role or a direct and hands-on operational excellence project role would be an advantage.* Wider logistics, warehousing and procurement experience an advantage.Knowledge/Skills Requirements * High level of attention to detail.* High results orientation.* Exceptional communication skills both written and oral.* A full complement of business computer literacy skills.* Strong spreadsheet skills are an essential requirement.* Hands-on experience of planning via recognized ERP business system.* Hands on experience of planning via recognized APS system an advantage.* Strong problem solving and analytical skills.* Ability to work independently on multiple projects.* Works well in a team environment.* Works well under pressure and able to prioritize workloads.* Must be able to interact effectively with a variety of individuals and styles within and between departments.* Will possess strong troubleshooting and communication skills.* Will be familiar with cGMP and safe work practices.* Be organized. Maintain good records, and be able to access them rapidly. Understand where information can be found.* Be knowledgeable. Bring experience to the organization. Learn new skills; Demonstrate a willingness to share skills and information with others.* Make sound judgments. Blend knowledge and analysis with logic, active listening, and a continuing interest in simplification. Act ethically.* Demonstrate a bias toward action. Get things done. Be willing to take a position, and assert influence to drive improvement. Foster teamwork to get results.* Possess key knowledge and a deliverable understanding with regard to operational excellence, lean and six-sigma techniques. Will be able to devise and implement sustainable continuous improvement ideas based on this knowledge.* Demonstrate initiative. Develop ideas, and collect them from others. Continuously seek opportunity. Be detail oriented. Clarify issues, investigate* Demonstrated ability to read, write, and speak clear English and will also have solid math skills.Work Environment: * Fast-paced* Performance driven* Customer focused* Collaborative and inclusiveEEO:Catalent Pharma Solutions offers a competitive compensation, paid time off and benefits package including 401K and tuition reimbursement. Successful candidates must pass a background check and drug screen. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V Our equal opportunity policies and affirmative action programs are designed to ensure that all applicants and employees are considered for opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, veteran status or disability except where an accommodation is unavailable and an individual s disability is a bona fide occupational disqualification. These policies and programs cover every aspect of the employment experience: recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, layoff, recall from layoff, compensation, access to training, benefits, education, tuition assistance, company-sponsored social and recreational activities, and termination.

Job Title: Master Production Planner/Schedu Company: Rich Products Corporation Location: Chicago, IL Description: Title: Master Production Planner/SchedulerRequisition #: rich-00000279City, State: Niles, ILEmployment Type: Full TimeWork Shift: 1st ShiftWhat would I be responsible for?Rich Products Corporation is known around the world as the founder of the non-dairy segment of the frozen food industry and the leading supporter and solutions provider to the Food Service, In-Store Bakery and Retail marketplaces. We are one of the world's premier family-owned food companies with more than 7,300 associates worldwide.We currently have a great opportunity as a Master Production Planner/Scheduler at our Niles facility located in Niles, Illinois. Please visit our website at www.richs.com/careers to apply for this position or view other exciting opportunities.The Master Production Planner/Scheduler will develop short term supply plans and daily production schedules for designated production facilities and production lines. Optimize working capital costs of raw materials, conversion, and finished goods while achieving desired customer service objectives in support of supply chain initiatives and company profitability plans.What do I need to be considered a candidate?BS degree in Business or Logistics.1-3 years of planning experience.Statistical and spreadsheet analytical skills. Proficiency with Excel and AccessLogistical planning experience ' 2-3 years experience in a logistics function preferredKnowledge of manufacturing, distribution, and customer serviceAPICS Certification is preferredStrong interpersonal and communication skillsWe are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and invite qualified candidates to apply. As part of our efforts to provide a safe and productive environment and hire talented and qualified associates, we maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background investigations.

Job Title: Production Planning Manager Company: Company Confidential Location: Chicago, IL Description: A rapidly growing leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of high-density crystal materials for the Opto-electronic, semi-conductor, and optics industries is seeking Production Planning Manager reporting directly to VP of Quality and Supply Line Management. The Production Planning Manager will be responsible for all Production Planning activities, shipping of products, receiving of raw materials and consumables working closely with sales and marketing group, production managers, quality manager and finance organization. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: ·        Development and Execution of Production Schedule·        Prioritization of the order flow·        Assist in development of Production and Capacity planning·        Ensure that the production Plan supports revenue plan·        Optimize workflow to optimize the use of available capacity·        Make Shipments per schedule·        Interact with plants overseas   High Coordination with other groups within the company, including customer service, purchasing, finance, sales and production will be a key component leading to the success of this position. Experience: Minimum 10 years of production planning with minimum of 5 years supervisory experience Degree: Minimum BS degree in Industrial Engineering or Business Skills: High coordination skills, multiple tasking, leadership, negotiating skills, time management, ability to stay on top of things We offer a competitive salary including stock options, excellent benefits and a great work environment.  Come and join our team!

Job Title: Production Planner Company: Union Iron Works Location: Decatur, IL Description: Production Planner: Union Iron Works (UIW), Material Handling Fabricator is looking for a seasoned Production Planner to Schedule and coordinate a flow of work within operational departments to expedite production, providing support and expertise as required. Requirements: ? Associates degree in industrial technology, inventory control, drafting, manufacturing/tooling or equivalent; ? Minimum 4-5 years experience in manufacturing engineering, production planning, or a commensurate level of experience with production of grain handling systems; ? Lean Manufacturing exp. preferred; ? Made2Manage or other ERP system knowledge required; ? AutoCAD exp. preferred, Excel proficiency required; ? Experience with item masters/ Bill Of Materials/routings in a standard cost; ? Must possess a knowledge of production processes and drawing interpretation; ? Valid driver's license required. We offer a competitive wage and benefits including health, dental, 401k and more. Please send resume and salary requirement to: Union Iron Works, Attn: Human Resources, P.O. Box 1038, Decatur, IL 62521; or email to Register to View E.O.E. www.unionironworks.com

Job Title: Production Planner - Company: Agile-1 Location: Harvey, IL Description: Job Description:******************Relocation Assistance is Not Available**********************Responsibilities Works transform agreed to sales plans into production plans or purchase plans by examining inventory, current sales, sales plans & production capabilities.. Plans, prepares, manages, & communicates both short-term & longer-term executable, time-phased production plans for manufacture of products that maximizes inventory turns & minimizes excess inventory while meeting customer requirements. Balances demand plans with the supply capability, determines risks & capabilities of product supply & controls scheduling exceptionsConducts daily scheduling meeting s with production schedulers to recommend changes to schedule to meet customer demand & communicates outcome of the discussion to all stakeholders.Supports both Make-to-Stock & Make-to-Order business processes.Contributes to the monthly Sales, Inventory & Operations Planning (SOP) meetingsDevelops & manages supply responses across a single or multiple businessesDevelops, executes & manages an inventory plan which minimizes working capital while meeting or exceeding customer service targets. When exceptions occur conduct root cause analysis to develop & implement corrective actions, & communicate resolutions to all relevant stakeholders.Analyze, build & maintain inventory parameters & safety stock levels in the planning systems to ensure optimal inventory plans are developedDevelop & manage distribution & deployment strategies to optimally maintain inventory levels at distribution facilities. Monitor the distribution of product through the supply chain to ensure on-time delivery & high fill-rate levels. This includes the development & implementation of programs that ship product cross-streaming product among warehouses & production postponement strategies.Analyze., build & maintain distribution parameters in the planning systems.Implement state of the art planning techniques & strategies using an analytical approach supported with appropriate data analysis to meet/surpass customer service metrics, both at the aggregate level & at identified business/customer segmentation levels.Facilitates capacity planning discussions with manufacturing & steel procurement. Develops, implants, & maintains policies & procedures in accordance with Global Supply Chain goals Exhibits positive leadership traits with ability to communicate & influence Trains & mentors other demand planning team membersCoordinates SKU rationalization & reading inventory reductions in a manner to minimize impact on product supply Identifies & leads efforts to drive continuous improvement in areas related to job function including reducing working capital & improving customer service levels.Required & Desired SkillsBS in Business, Economics, Engineering, Computer Science/ related field. Masters degree is preferred.8 years of supply chain experience & leading teams in a multi-plant manufacturing environmentKnowledge of aspects of demand planning, production planning, production scheduling, forecasting, inventory management & controlDemonstrated leadership & team-building skillsAPICS certification & SAP knowledge is a plusExceptional analytical skills & tool experience (SAP, Excel, Pivot Tables, Access, etc)MS Office proficiency - Excel, Access, Power point, Project & Word.

Job Title: Master Production Planner/Scheduler Company: Rich Products Corporation Location: Niles, IL Description: **** Rich Products Corporation is known around the world as the founder of the non-dairy segment of the frozen food industry and the leading supporter and solutions provider to the Food Service, In-Store Bakery and Retail marketplaces. We are one of the world's premier family-owned food companies with more than 7,300 associates worldwide. We currently have a great opportunity as a Master Production Planner/Scheduler at our Niles facility located in Niles, Illinois. Please visit our website at www.richs.com/careers to apply for this position or view other exciting opportunities.The Master Production Planner/Scheduler will develop short term supply plans and daily production schedules for designated production facilities and production lines. Optimize working capital costs of raw materials, conversion, and finished goods while achieving desired customer service objectives in support of supply chain initiatives and company profitability plans. BS degree in Business or Logistics. 1-3 years of planning experience.Statistical and spreadsheet analytical skills. Proficiency with Excel and AccessLogistical planning experience ' 2-3 years experience in a logistics function preferredKnowledge of manufacturing, distribution, and customer serviceAPICS Certification is preferredStrong interpersonal and communication skillsWe are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and invite qualified candidates to apply. As part of our efforts to provide a safe and productive environment and hire talented and qualified associates, we maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background investigations.

Job Title: Master Production Planner/Scheduler Company: Rich Products Corporation Location: Wheeling, IL Description: **** Rich Products Corporation is known around the world as the founder of the non-dairy segment of the frozen food industry and the leading supporter and solutions provider to the Food Service, In-Store Bakery and Retail marketplaces. We are one of the world's premier family-owned food companies with more than 7,300 associates worldwide. We currently have a great opportunity as a Master Production Planner/Scheduler at our Wheeling facility located in Wheeling, Illinois. Please visit our website at www.richs.com/careers to apply for this position or view other exciting opportunities.The Master Production Planner/Scheduler will develop short term supply plans and daily production schedules for designated production facilities and production lines. Optimize working capital costs of raw materials, conversion, and finished goods while achieving desired customer service objectives in support of supply chain initiatives and company profitability plans. BS degree in Business or Logistics. 1-3 years of planning experience.Statistical and spreadsheet analytical skills. Proficiency with Excel and AccessLogistical planning experience ' 2-3 years experience in a logistics function preferredKnowledge of manufacturing, distribution, and customer serviceAPICS Certification is preferredStrong interpersonal and communication skillsWe are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and invite qualified candidates to apply. As part of our efforts to provide a safe and productive environment and hire talented and qualified associates, we maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background investigations.