Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineer - Distribution Center

Location: Lake Bluff, IL

Salary Range: doe

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

One of our clients is seeking an Industrial Engineer - Distribution Center to drive operational efficiency, streamline workflows, improve inventory accuracy, and deliver measurable cost savings across its distribution operations.

The successful candidate will lead warehouse process improvements, WMS optimization, acquisition integration, Lean initiatives, and cost-reduction projects while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and customer service.

This role will initially focus on acquisition integration, distribution center process improvements, and WMS system enhancements . The position reports to the Leader, Distribution Support and requires strong analytical, project management, and leadership capabilities, along with flexibility to work overtime as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Engineering and Project Management
• Optimize Warehouse Management System (WMS) configurations, including automation, picking strategies, allocation strategies, and workflow improvements.
• Collaborate with IT and systems teams to identify, test, and implement system enhancements that improve productivity, throughput, quality, and user experience.
• Support the implementation of warehouse technologies, including forklifts, electric walkies, AGVs, conveyor systems, automated packing, robotics, and lithium battery solutions.
• Develop warehouse layouts, storage plans, and facility design recommendations to maximize capacity, space utilization, and operational efficiency.
• Manage warehouse slotting programs, bulk storage configurations, and space optimization initiatives using data-driven methods.
• Monitor operational KPIs, develop reporting tools, and automate recurring reports where practical.
• Support inventory improvement projects and cycle-count programs by analyzing inventory KPIs and identifying process improvements.
• Develop and maintain preventive maintenance (PM) programs for warehouse equipment and support equipment installation, maintenance, safety, and standardization.
• Implement quality control measures across receiving, storage, and fulfillment operations.
• Develop, document, map, maintain, and audit Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Identify, justify, and implement cost-saving initiatives using data analysis and operational assessments.
• Lead projects involving time-and-motion studies, bottleneck analysis, productivity improvements, and quality enhancements.
• Develop project plans, manage budgets and timelines, coordinate stakeholders, and validate solutions through pilot programs.
• Coordinate vendor relationships and manage facility reconfigurations, setups, and exits associated with acquisitions and lease expirations.
• Continuous Improvement and Lean
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, shorten lead times, improve productivity, and optimize resource utilization.
• Implement and maintain 5S standards throughout distribution center operations.
• Train and mentor employees on improved workflows, new technologies, and structured problem-solving methods.
• Analyze underperforming operational metrics and develop data-backed corrective action plans.
• Develop and continuously improve distribution center KPIs.
• Benchmark industry best practices and identify opportunities to introduce new processes and technologies.
• Supervision and Leadership
• Provide temporary operational leadership and serve as a backup for warehouse leaders during planned or unplanned absences.
• Oversee receiving, storage, inventory movement, and shipping activities to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment.
• Monitor workflows, address operational challenges, and maintain day-to-day continuity.
• Support staff training, change management, and adoption of new systems and procedures.
• Safety and Compliance
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards.
• Promote safe equipment operation, proper storage practices, and product integrity.
• Support operational coverage during peak periods and work overtime as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Preferably 3+ years of engineering experience in a warehouse or distribution center environment.
• Strong understanding of supply chain logistics, warehouse operations, WMS, and process optimization.
• Demonstrated experience leading projects, analyzing operational data, and implementing process improvements.
• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong communication, leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Required Skills

• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Experience with WMS configuration and optimization; Infor WMS is a plus.
• AutoCAD: Experience developing warehouse layouts, facility designs, and storage configurations.
• Data Analysis: Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• ERP/TMS: Understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
• Lean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement: Experience with Lean Six Sigma, 5S, time-and-motion studies, and process optimization.
• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, budgets, vendors, and stakeholders.
• SOP Development: Experience creating, maintaining, documenting, and auditing standard operating procedures.
• Leadership: Ability to mentor employees, make sound decisions, and provide temporary operational supervision.
• Strong attention to detail, initiative, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently.

Compensation And Benefits Annual Salary: $85,000-$110,000

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) Safe Harbor Plan with a 3% company contribution.
• Generous paid time off.
• 10 paid company holidays annually.
• One paid volunteer day per year.
• Company-provided life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.
• Team-building and off-site events.
• Company performance-based bonus plan.

Physical Requirements

The position involves regular standing, walking, sitting, and other physical activities within a warehouse environment. Duties may include climbing, bending, kneeling, crouching, and lifting or moving objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Our client is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.