Engineer, Material Flow

Slate Auto•Warsaw, IN

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Slate is seeking a highly driven 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.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
3+ years of experience in material flow, logistics, or industrial engineering, preferably in the automotive industry or another high-volume manufacturing environment.
Proven experience managing material handling equipment from concept to operations.
Proficiency in AutoCAD, simulation tools, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
Self-starter with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree is preferred.
Experience with fork-free material delivery strategies, AGVs / AGCs, including kitting / sequencing cells and lean lineside presentation.
Familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and material tracking technologies.

Responsibilities

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.