Continuous Improvement Engineer

JOB SUMMARY:

This job focuses on optimizing the flow of people, products, and equipment in a distribution or fulfillment facility to improve productivity, cost, and service. This role uses industrial engineering tools with warehousing technology like WMS, LMS, and automation. Develop, and lead continuous improvement (CI) projects and re-engineering of supply chain processes and systems, focused on partner groups. Establish KPIs and other performance goals and objectives. Monitor and track progress at the site and aggregate level. Participate in business reviews with partners to engage on process improvement opportunities as they develop and to enhance value-add relationships.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Analyze current warehouse processes (receiving, put-away, replenishment, picking, packing, loading) to identify bottlenecks, waste, and cost-reduction opportunities using time studies, work sampling, and data analysis.
• Design and maintain facility layouts, slotting strategies, and material flow to optimize travel, space utilization, and throughput, typically using CAD and simulation tools.
• Develop, implement, and maintain engineered labor standards and labor management or incentive programs, within WMS/LMS environments.
• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, 5S, value stream mapping, and theory of constraints to improve productivity and service while reducing costs.
• Optimize the flow of materials, information, and product to ensure the fastest, safest, and most cost-effective movement through the facility.
• Assess and forecast facility capacity requirements based on business projections, inventory profiles, and seasonal volume changes.
• Develop insights through analysis and visualization with data to inform and influence stakeholders
• Conduct advanced root cause analysis on metrics to enhance cost effectiveness and operational efficiency
• Work with new technology and automation (conveyors, sorters, AS/RS, AMRs/AGVs, voice/light systems), supporting business cases, requirements, implementation, and performance monitoring.
• Perform detailed cost-benefit analyses, financial modeling, and Return on Investment (ROI) calculations for all proposed projects and capital investments.
• Build dashboards, KPIs, and analytical models to track labor, capacity, inventory, and service metrics, and recommend corrective actions to leadership
• Partner with operations, IT, maintenance, safety, and quality teams to design and roll out process changes, ensuring change management and associate training on new SOPs and standards.
• Create and maintain standard work, process maps, and SOPs that formalize best practices, ensuring compliance and safety.
• Determine optimal staffing levels and shift schedules based on workload forecasts and engineered standards to meet daily operational demands.
• Support network or site projects such as new building launches, expansions, and re-slotting events, providing engineered scope, estimates, and capacity models.
• Contribute to AI-driven initiatives by generating ideas, assisting with vendor evaluations, supporting implementation efforts, and driving continuous improvement to ensure solutions align with operational and business objectives

*Performs Additional Responsibilities As Assigned*

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Systems Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field, often with experience in warehousing, logistics, or distribution operations
• 2 or more years of experience in Operations & Automation in Warehousing and/or Logistics functions
• 2 or more years of experience in SAP or related ERP experience in process improvement tools and methodologies
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher preferred) or equivalent experience applying Lean/Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to effectively present information and quickly respond to questions and requests from groups of managers, partners and clients
• Demonstrated ability to create and foster successful internal and external relationships
• Strong working knowledge of Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint, simulation tools
• Solid communication (written and verbal), organization, prioritization and problem-solving skills
• Proven track record in successful implementation of supply chain logistics improvement initiatives with measurable results
• Passion for innovation and a results-driven mindset
• Experience in warehouse automation and automation systems
• Ability to work with mathematical concepts and to define complex problems
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align efforts with supply chain improvement initiatives
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with partners, and stakeholders

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand for long period of times.
• Ability to safely operate material handling equipment as needed.
• Ability to work in warehouse environment on concrete flooring and in varying temperatures
• Ability to travel, either via automobile or airplane for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift 30 to 45 lbs