Senior Engineer, Material Flow
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About Slate
At Slate, we've got one job: building a vehicle you'll fall in love with, right here in the USA. We believe that car buyers not car companies should call the shots. We like looking at a road, not a screen. We don't like paying for stuff we don't need. We like picking out the stuff we do need. We think dings are badges, not blemishes. But we know not everyone likes what we like. So, we built you a Slate: you make it yours.
Who we are looking for:
Slate is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Engineer, Material Flow to lead the design, analysis, and continuous improvement of material flow systems across warehouse and manufacturing environments. This role is critical in developing and implementing strategies that enhance material delivery efficiency, productivity, and overall factory logistics.
The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in high-volume automotive manufacturing, with deep expertise in material flow design, handling systems, and Lean manufacturing principles. This role requires strong collaboration across departments and the ability to manage complex projects from concept through execution.
What you get to do:
Design and optimize material flow from warehouse to point-of-use using lean manufacturing principles. Implement lineside material replenishment systems (e.g., eKanban) to automate material calls and improve delivery efficiency. Develop and maintain layouts for material handling systems, maximizing warehouse and production floor space. Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Manufacturing, Logistics, IT, Quality, Purchasing, Suppliers) to align material flow with production schedules. Lead implementation of pull systems with balanced stock levels at each point of use. Manage and maintain the Plan for Every Part (PFEP), analyzing volumes, packaging, transportation, and delivery methods. Conduct static and dynamic simulations to identify and mitigate congestion and part shortages. Oversee material handling equipment from concept through procurement and operational deployment (e.g., forklifts, tuggers, AGVs / AGCs, carts, racks, low-cost automation). Research and evaluate new technologies in material handling and warehouse optimization; develop ROI-based business cases. Support cost optimization initiatives, including workstation density and material presentation improvements. Apply lean principles such as line balancing, waste elimination, and error-proofing. Present material flow strategies and business cases to leadership; manage capital and operational budgets. What you bring to the team:
Education & Experience Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. Master's degree is preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in Materials Flow, Logistics, or Industrial Engineering, preferably in the automotive industry.
- Proven experience managing material handling equipment from concept to operations.
- Experience with fork-free strategies, AGVs / AGCs, including kitting / sequencing cells and lean lineside presentation.
- Familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and material tracking technologies.
- Familiarity with Packaging Engineering is a plus.
Technical Expertise
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPS, macros, and more.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, simulation tools, and ERP systems.
Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, leveraging data-driven insights to enhance operations.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, particularly in explaining complex analytics, process improvements, and system integrations.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment.
Physical Requirements:
- Must have the ability to travel (up to 20%).
- Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
- Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
Why Join Team Slate?
At Slate, we're fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.
- Safety First
- Delight Customers
- One Team
- Relentless Improvement
- Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy
- Respectful Collaboration
- Positive Legacy
We want to work with people that reflect the communities in which we operate.
- Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
- Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected].