Principal Material Flow Engineer

GE Appliances, a Haier company•Louisville, KY

About The Position

The Principal Material Flow Engineer leads the design and integration of advanced material replenishment and warehouse management systems, using automation, robotics, and emerging technologies to optimize supply chain performance. The role develops lean material flow strategies, evaluates and improves material-handling processes before automation, and works with suppliers, 3PLs, and cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within budget. It also provides technical leadership and coaching while ensuring alignment with EHS, Lean Manufacturing, Ergonomics, and TPM standards to support operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent, and at least 7 years of firsthand experience in distribution, logistics, or supply chain, including experience with Lean Supply Chain production methods.
Computer knowledge, including robotic languages, ACAD, and MS Office.
Knowledge of manufacturing and warehouse operations.
Excellent project tracking and detailed planning skills.
Ability to work in large cross-functional teams and at multiple organizational levels, including salaried employees, shop floor operators, and skilled trades team members.
Good oral and written communication skills, including the ability to provide status reports to cross-functional teams and train other engineers.
Demonstrated ability to own cross-functional program deliverables and drive decisions based on the overall benefit to the company.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in engineering or a related discipline.
Creative ability to develop a practical, implementable vision beyond current practices, with a strong history of executing that vision.
Prior experience in high-SKU, high-velocity manufacturing operations.
Simulation experience.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and integration of advanced material replenishment and warehouse management systems (WMS).
Champion emerging technologies, including robotics, drones, and automation, to improve supply chain efficiency.
Support and develop lean material flow processes and systems across manufacturing operations.
Guide outsourced resources and 3PL partners in implementing material flow practices.
Analyze, evaluate, and optimize material handling before automating processes.
Collaborate with suppliers to ensure projects meet schedules, budgets, and success criteria.
Drive cross-functional collaboration to eliminate waste and integrate automation with manufacturing.
Provide leadership, coaching, and training to cross-functional teams, maintenance, and shop floor personnel.
Ensure compliance with EHS standards and alignment with Lean Manufacturing, Ergonomics, and TPM initiatives.
Influence policies and operational strategies in support of long-term business goals.