Job Title: Material Handling Engineer 

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Material Handling Engineer to join our engineering team. In this senior role, you will be responsible for leading the design, optimization, and implementation of material handling systems across our facilities. You will oversee the entire lifecycle of material handling solutions, from conceptual design to troubleshooting and system optimization, ensuring that operations run efficiently and safely. As a senior engineer, you will mentor junior engineers, manage projects, and play a pivotal role in improving material flow, storage, and handling processes within the warehouse or manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Design and Development of Material Handling Systems:

   • Lead the design and development of material handling systems, including conveyors, automated storage systems, forklifts, cranes, and other material transport solutions.
   • Create detailed system layouts, design specifications, and performance criteria for new equipment or upgrades to existing systems.
   • Ensure designs meet operational requirements, safety standards, and cost objectives while improving material handling efficiency.

2. System Optimization and Troubleshooting:

   • Conduct in-depth analysis of current material handling systems and develop strategies for improving their efficiency, throughput, and reliability.
   • Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for system failures, working with operations and maintenance teams to resolve issues quickly.
   • Develop solutions to improve material flow, reduce bottlenecks, minimize downtime, and enhance overall system performance.

3. Project Management and Coordination:

   • Manage and oversee material handling projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.
   • Coordinate with cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, IT, safety, and procurement) to ensure that material handling solutions are successfully implemented.
   • Prepare and manage project budgets, timelines, and resources, ensuring that projects are delivered on schedule and within budget.

4. Team Leadership and Mentorship:

   • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, helping to develop their skills and guiding them on project tasks.
   • Conduct training sessions on material handling technologies, best practices, and safety standards.
   • Promote a collaborative work environment and ensure that team members are motivated and aligned with company objectives.

5. Maintenance and Lifecycle Management:

   • Develop preventive maintenance schedules for material handling systems to ensure equipment longevity and minimize unplanned downtime.
   • Work closely with the maintenance team to ensure that repairs and upgrades are completed in a timely and effective manner.
   • Continuously monitor system performance and initiate improvements as needed to ensure high efficiency and safety standards.

6. Safety and Compliance:

   • Ensure that all material handling systems and operations comply with safety regulations and company policies.
   • Lead safety audits and risk assessments for material handling systems, identifying potential hazards and implementing mitigation measures.
   • Ensure that proper safety features (such as emergency stops, overload protection, and operator safety guards) are included in equipment designs.

7. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Maintain detailed documentation for all projects, including system designs, specifications, maintenance schedules, and performance data.
   • Prepare and deliver regular reports on system performance, project status, and recommendations for improvements to senior management.
   • Ensure all regulatory and compliance documentation is up-to-date and accessible.

8. Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

   • Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in material handling and automation, applying best practices to improve system design and efficiency.
   • Lead initiatives to implement innovative solutions, such as robotics, AI, and IoT, to enhance material handling operations.
   • Conduct regular reviews of system performance and implement continuous improvement processes.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Material Handling System Design and Optimization:

   • Lead the design, testing, and optimization of material handling systems to improve efficiency, reliability, and safety in warehouse or manufacturing environments.

2. Project Leadership and Execution:

   • Oversee and manage material handling projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required technical specifications.

3. Team Leadership and Development:

   • Mentor and train junior engineers, fostering a high level of technical competence and collaboration within the engineering team.

4. Troubleshooting and Root Cause Analysis:

   • Provide expertise in troubleshooting and resolving complex issues with material handling systems, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal operation.

5. Safety and Regulatory Compliance:

   • Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements across all material handling systems, promoting a safe working environment.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Logistics, or a related field.
   • A master’s degree in Engineering or a related field is a plus.

2. Experience:

   • 5+ years of experience in material handling engineering or related field, with a strong focus on the design, implementation, and optimization of material handling systems.
   • Proven experience leading teams, managing projects, and troubleshooting complex material handling systems.
   • Strong expertise in warehouse automation, conveyor systems, and other material transport technologies.

3. Skills:

   • Advanced knowledge of material handling systems, including automated storage systems, conveyors, and lift equipment.
   • Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar) for designing system layouts and equipment specifications.
   • Strong project management skills, with experience managing budgets, timelines, and cross-functional teams.
   • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to identify issues and implement solutions quickly.
   • Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with the capacity to guide and develop junior engineers and technicians.
   • Knowledge of safety standards and regulations related to material handling systems (e.g., OSHA, ANSI, and ISO standards).

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Certifications in material handling technologies, such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar certifications.
   • Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.
   • Forklift operation and safety certification.