Industrial Engineer

Come join our team!

$1,000 Retention Bonus (after 1 year)
Paid Time Off
11 Paid Holidays
Eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan 
Competitive Benefits

MPS, a division of Macmillan Publishers, a leading US publisher of Trade and Academic titles, has a job opening for an Industrial Engineer in our Gordonsville facility. MPS provides back office support, warehousing, and, fulfillment for Macmillan US, and is their primary distribution facility for North America.

Position Summary:
The Industrial Engineer will play a pivotal role in optimizing the operational efficiency and productivity of our distribution and returns facilities. Reporting to the VP, Operations, the Industrial Engineer will be responsible for developing solutions to determine optimal warehouse design, functional requirements, material handling equipment applications, work measurement and labor standards, incentive systems, slotting, operational planning and improvement through data collection, statistical and mapping analysis, and designing customized solutions. The primary focus will be on streamlining processes, implementing continuous improvement initiatives, and enhancing overall facility performance.

Key Responsibilities:

Process Optimization:

• Conduct detailed analysis of existing processes within each department to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement efficient workflows, layout designs, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs.
• Utilize industrial engineering principles and methodologies to optimize resource utilization, minimize waste, and increase throughput.

Continuous Improvement:

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to drive operational excellence throughout the distribution and returns facilities.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other improvement tools to eliminate inefficiencies and enhance process reliability.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to monitor performance, track progress, and identify opportunities for further optimization.

Facility Layout and Design:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and optimize facility layout for maximum efficiency and throughput.
• Ensure ergonomic considerations, safety standards, and regulatory compliance are incorporated into the facility layout and design.
• Implement strategies to minimize travel time, reduce congestion, and improve material flow within the facilities.

Technology Integration:

• Evaluate and recommend technological solutions, automation systems, and software tools to streamline operations and improve accuracy.
• Collaborate with IT and engineering teams to implement and integrate new technologies, such as warehouse management systems (WMS) and automated material handling equipment.
• Provide training and support to employees on the use of new technologies and systems.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with department managers and cross-functional teams to identify operational challenges and develop effective solutions.
• Collaborate with Logistics, Customer Service, Finance, Human Resources, and other departments to align operational objectives and priorities.
• Facilitate regular meetings, workshops, and training sessions to foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Performance Analysis and Reporting:

• Analyze operational data, performance metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement.
• Prepare regular reports, dashboards, and presentations to communicate performance results, project updates, and recommendations to senior management.
• Monitor financial performance, budget variances, and cost-saving initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial engineering, process improvement, or operations management within a distribution or logistics environment.
• Strong knowledge of industrial engineering principles, methodologies, and tools (e.g., lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, time and motion studies, process mapping).
• Proven track record of implementing process improvements and driving operational excellence in a fast-paced, high-volume distribution environment.
• Experience with systems used to manage warehouse/distribution centers (e.g. WMS, WCS, etc.), material handling equipment, and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) preferred.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and develop actionable insights.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to articulate ideas, influence stakeholders, and build consensus across cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in AutoCad
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and data analysis tools.
• Knowledge of safety regulations, OSHA standards, and environmental compliance requirements.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are actively seeking job applicants who reflect a broad representation of differences, including race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender Identity/expression, physical ability, neurodiversity, age, family status, economic background and status, geographical background and status, and perspective. We believe that the best companies reflect the incredible diversity in viewpoints, backgrounds, and identities of the world in their staffs, and are committed to inclusive hiring across departments and levels. The successful candidate for this position will be an employee of MPS.