Manager, Distribution Center Optimization & orage Engineering
About The Position
The Manager, Storage Engineering leads the design, development, and optimization of storage and slotting systems that support Grainger U.S. fulfillment objectives. This role manages and develops a team of supply chain analysts and provides technical leadership for storage modeling, distribution center design, optimization, and improvement initiatives. The manager leads large-scale storage projects, evaluates technologies and solutions, and applies advanced analytics to improve warehouse space utilization, operational performance, and return on invested capital. The role partners across the Global Supply Chain to implement storage solutions that meet business objectives, industry regulations, safety standards, and environmental guidelines. The position reports to the Sr. Manager, Storage Engineering. When not traveling, the role is based at Grainger’s corporate headquarters in Lake Forest, Illinois, with a possible downtown Chicago office arrangement. Peak periods may require up to 75% travel.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, or an equivalent STEM field.
- At least 5 years of supply chain or equivalent business experience, including a proven record of managing complex data analysis and projects.
- Strong leadership, team management, and mentoring skills.
- In-depth knowledge of distribution center design, technology, and storage fulfillment methodologies.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency in Smartsheet, Snowflake, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Experience designing and implementing new distribution centers.
- Ability to travel, with travel reaching as high as 75% during peak periods.
Nice To Haves
- Proficiency in SQL, Python, Java, or Scala.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of complex storage and slotting systems aligned with Grainger U.S. fulfillment objectives.
- Conduct advanced storage modeling, simulation, and analysis to identify constraints and drive optimization.
- Manage and develop a team of supply chain analysts, providing technical guidance and supporting career development.
- Set goals, conduct regular performance reviews, and support analysts’ professional growth.
- Foster a collaborative, high-performance team environment through effective leadership and communication.
- Implement and manage slotting optimization models to improve storage utilization and return on invested capital.
- Oversee large-scale storage improvement projects from conception through completion, ensuring alignment with Grainger objectives.
- Develop and manage project plans, including scope, timeline, budget, and resource allocation.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams across the Global Supply Chain to deliver project results on time.
- Provide advanced technical expertise and problem-solving for complex storage challenges and innovations.
- Monitor industry trends, technologies, and best practices to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
- Develop, evaluate, and recommend technologies and storage enhancements.
- Analyze complex data using statistical methods to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities.
- Develop and monitor KPIs to assess warehouse space and support data-driven decision-making.
- Prepare and present reports and recommendations to Grainger leadership on storage improvements and project outcomes.
- Ensure storage methods and installations comply with industry regulations, safety standards, and environmental guidelines.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage starting on the first day of employment.
- Six free sessions each year with a licensed therapist.
- 18 annual PTO days for full-time employees, prorated based on employment start date.
- Six company holidays per year.
- A 6% company contribution to a 401(k) retirement savings plan each pay period, with no employee contribution required.
- Employee discounts.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Student loan refinancing.
- Free access to financial counseling, education, and tools.
- Maternity support programs and nursing benefits.
- Up to 14 weeks of paid leave for birth parents and up to 4 weeks of paid leave for non-birth parents.
- Incentive target of up to 15%, based on individual and company performance objectives.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
