Job Title: Material Handling Engineer
Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled Material Handling Engineer – Mid-Level to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, optimization, and maintenance of material handling systems. You will work on improving the efficiency of material flow processes, analyzing system performance, and troubleshooting complex issues. As a mid-level engineer, you will take on more responsibility in leading projects, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating across departments to implement and optimize material handling solutions in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and Optimization of Material Handling Systems:
- Lead the design and development of material handling systems, including conveyors, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), hoists, cranes, and robotic systems.
- Optimize material flow and layout to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall warehouse or production operations.
- Develop and implement systems to improve the transportation, storage, and retrieval of materials throughout the facility.
Project Management and Implementation:
- Manage the planning, execution, and commissioning of material handling system projects from concept to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet operational requirements.
- Work with cross-functional teams to coordinate the integration of material handling solutions with existing systems and workflows.
- Oversee the installation and startup of new equipment, ensuring that systems are operating as designed and optimized.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
- Lead the troubleshooting of complex material handling systems, including mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues.
- Implement preventive maintenance schedules and manage maintenance activities to minimize downtime and ensure equipment reliability.
- Support and guide the maintenance team in resolving technical issues and ensuring systems operate efficiently.
Data Analysis and Performance Monitoring:
- Collect, analyze, and report on system performance data to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Use performance metrics to assess and optimize material handling systems, ensuring high throughput and minimal downtime.
- Recommend and implement solutions to improve system performance, reliability, and efficiency.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure that all material handling systems comply with safety standards, industry regulations, and internal safety protocols.
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure that all equipment is operating safely, minimizing risk to employees and equipment.
- Promote a culture of safety by conducting regular safety audits, providing safety training, and enforcing the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Mentorship and Team Leadership:
- Provide leadership and guidance to junior engineers and technicians, helping them grow in their roles and develop their skills.
- Collaborate with the engineering team to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions for material handling challenges.
- Coordinate with other departments to ensure that material handling solutions are aligned with overall company goals and operational requirements.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Prepare detailed documentation for material handling system designs, modifications, maintenance activities, and troubleshooting procedures.
- Maintain accurate records of all system performance, issues, and improvements, ensuring proper documentation for future reference.
- Provide regular reports to senior management on the status of material handling systems, performance metrics, and ongoing projects.
Key Focus Areas:
System Design and Optimization:
- Focus on the design, analysis, and optimization of material handling systems to ensure smooth, efficient, and cost-effective operations.
Project Leadership:
- Lead the implementation of material handling systems, overseeing all phases from design to installation and optimization.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
- Take the lead in troubleshooting complex issues and ensuring the ongoing reliability and performance of material handling systems.
Data Analysis and Continuous Improvement:
- Analyze performance data to make informed recommendations for continuous improvement in system efficiency and throughput.
Team Leadership and Mentorship:
- Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with the team to achieve shared goals and improve material handling systems.
Qualifications and Skills:
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Logistics, or a related field.
- Certification in material handling systems, automation, or project management is a plus.
Experience:
- 3-5 years of experience in material handling systems design, optimization, and maintenance, preferably in a manufacturing or distribution environment.
- Hands-on experience with material handling systems, including conveyors, cranes, robotic systems, AGVs, and automated storage systems.
- Experience in project management and the successful implementation of material handling systems.
Skills:
- Strong understanding of material handling systems, logistics, and manufacturing processes.
- Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.) for system design and layout.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, electrical, or system issues.
- Knowledge of control systems and automation in material handling applications.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and lead projects.
- Excellent project management skills, with experience in leading teams and managing timelines and budgets.
Certifications (Preferred):
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or similar.
- Lean Six Sigma or similar continuous improvement certifications.
- OSHA or other relevant safety certifications.