Systems Engineer 1

DENSO • Maryville, TN

4d • $73,000 - $91,000

About The Position

The Systems Engineer 1 supports the development and implementation of strategic logistics network improvements across Denso's North American manufacturing and distribution operations. Working under the guidance of experienced NALD team members and department leadership, this position assists with logistics data analysis, operational assessments, process improvement initiatives, and project execution activities.

The role provides an opportunity to develop foundational knowledge of logistics network design, manufacturing logistics, supply chain operations, and continuous improvement methodologies while contributing to initiatives focused on reducing total logistics costs, improving operational efficiency, and standardizing logistics practices across North America. The successful candidate demonstrates strong analytical capabilities, intellectual curiosity, a willingness to learn, and the ability to translate data and observations into insights that support fact-based decision-making.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, or a related field.
• 0–3 years of professional experience in manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, industrial engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with an interest in applying data to solve business problems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data organization, analysis, and reporting.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft PowerPoint and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and communicate findings effectively.
• Basic understanding of financial concepts, cost analysis, and business performance metrics.
• Foundational understanding of Industrial Engineering principles, process improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to observe operational processes, identify potential inefficiencies, and ask thoughtful questions.
• Understanding of basic process mapping, standard work, and data-driven problem-solving.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prepare clear analytical summaries, reports, and presentations.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage assigned tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and meet established deadlines.
• Willingness to collaborate with individuals across different functions and organizational levels.
• Ability to receive feedback, adapt, and continuously improve performance.
• Self-motivated, curious, results-oriented, accountable, adaptable, and comfortable working with data and unfamiliar problems.
• Professional and collaborative approach when interacting with operational personnel.
• Willingness to travel to manufacturing and logistics locations throughout North America as required.

Nice To Haves

• Internship, co-op, or project experience involving data analysis, process improvement, manufacturing operations, or supply chain management.
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, TPS, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exposure to ERP/WMS platforms, such as Oracle or SAP.
• Interest in developing knowledge of logistics operations, warehousing, transportation, and supply chain management.
• Ability to learn and utilize ERP, WMS, and business intelligence systems.
• Interest in developing knowledge of Toyota Production System (TPS), Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Willingness to learn facility layout, material flow, labor productivity, and logistics optimization principles.

Responsibilities

• Assist with analyzing Denso's North American logistics network to identify opportunities for improved efficiency, cost reduction, and space utilization.
• Collect, organize, validate, and maintain logistics data related to external warehouses, transportation, inventory, facility utilization, and logistics costs.
• Support evaluations of warehouse utilization, inventory positioning, transportation routes, and distribution strategies.
• Assist with developing and comparing logistics network optimization scenarios, including warehouse consolidation and facility utilization improvements.
• Conduct research and benchmarking to identify logistics best practices and potential improvement opportunities.
• Prepare analytical summaries and supporting materials to help department leadership evaluate network-wide improvement opportunities.
• Analyze data to identify operational trends, performance gaps, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and maintain Excel-based analytical tools, reports, and performance tracking mechanisms.
• Assist with monitoring logistics performance indicators related to cost, productivity, space utilization, transportation, and operational efficiency.
• Support development of financial analyses and business cases for proposed logistics improvement initiatives.
• Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and reliability across assigned analyses and reporting activities.
• Translate analytical findings into clear summaries, charts, and presentations for department leadership.
• Support development and deployment of standardized logistics processes, methodologies, and best practices across North American operations.
• Assist with documenting existing logistics processes, standard work, and operational procedures.
• Participate in operational assessments to identify process inefficiencies, waste, and opportunities for improvement.
• Support initiatives involving labor productivity, standard work development, facility layout optimization, and operational efficiency.
• Assist with identifying and sharing successful improvement practices across manufacturing and logistics locations (Yokoten).
• Support NALD project leaders in planning and executing logistics improvement initiatives.
• Assist with developing project schedules, tracking milestones, maintaining action items, and monitoring project progress.
• Coordinate information gathering and follow-up activities with manufacturing sites and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Prepare project documentation, analytical summaries, presentations, and status reports.
• Participate in project meetings, site assessments, and cross-functional working sessions.
• Identify and communicate potential project risks, delays, and issues to project leadership.
• Take ownership of assigned tasks and deliverables while working within established project direction and guidance.
• Support evaluations of emerging logistics technologies, automation solutions, and digital tools for potential application within Denso's North American operations.
• Assist with collecting operational data and evaluating process conditions to support automation feasibility assessments.
• Develop an understanding of warehouse management systems, ERP platforms, and logistics performance measurement tools.
• Support initiatives involving Oracle WMS and other technologies intended to improve operational visibility, productivity, and performance management.
• Research logistics technology trends and identify potential applications that support long-term network efficiency.
• Develop working relationships with site logistics personnel and cross-functional stakeholders throughout North America.
• Participate in site visits and operational assessments to develop an understanding of manufacturing and logistics operations.
• Assist with gathering operational feedback and identifying challenges where NALD can provide support.
• Communicate analytical findings, project updates, and improvement opportunities clearly and professionally.
• Demonstrate a customer-focused approach when working with manufacturing and logistics operations.
• Collaborate with NALD team members to support department objectives and deliverables.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans.
• 401K with 4% company match.
• Vacation/PTO and 13 paid holidays.
• Bonus program.
• FSA/HSA and dependent care programs.
• Company-provided life, disability, ADD, and business travel insurance.
• No-cost wellness and chronic condition management programs.
• Optional insurance programs such as legal, identity theft, and critical illness coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Career development and ongoing training.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee Spotlight and Recognition Program.
• Volunteer opportunities.
• Onsite fitness center (varies by location).
• Cafeteria and food markets (varies by location).
• Onsite health clinic and pharmacy (varies by location).

What This Job Offers

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