Principal Material Flow Engineer

GE Appliances • Louisville, KY

2d • Onsite

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 partners with suppliers, 3PLs, and cross-functional teams to deliver projects on schedule and within budget. It also provides technical leadership and coaching while ensuring alignment with EHS, Lean Manufacturing, Ergonomics, and TPM standards to support long-term operational excellence.

The position is based in Louisville, Kentucky. Working conditions include fast-paced, high-volume distribution and manufacturing settings, with 30–40% travel that may be domestic or international. Working off-shift and weekends is required. The role offers flexibility arrangements developed with the employee’s leader to balance individual, team, and business needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent, and 7+ years of firsthand experience with distribution, logistics, or supply chain, including experience in Lean Supply Chain production method.
• Solid 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 staff, shop floor operators, and skilled trades team members.
• Good oral and written communication skills, including providing status reports to cross-functional teams and training other engineers.
• Demonstrated ability to own cross-functional program deliverables and drive decisions based on overall company benefit.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain that authorization without current or future employer or school sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in engineering or a related discipline.
• Highly creative talent with a proven ability to look beyond current practices, develop a practical and implementable vision, and execute 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 broader policies and operational strategies in support of long-term business goals.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangement developed with the employee’s leader to balance individual, team, and organizational needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal