Systems Engineer 1

Denso • Maryville, TN

5d • $73,000 - $91,000

About The Position

The Logistics Network Design Specialist – Level 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. The role develops foundational knowledge of logistics network design, manufacturing logistics, supply chain operations, and continuous improvement while contributing to initiatives focused on reducing logistics costs, improving operational efficiency, and standardizing logistics practices across North America.

The successful candidate demonstrates analytical capability, intellectual curiosity, willingness to learn, and the ability to turn data and operational observations into insights that support fact-based decisions. The role collaborates with site logistics personnel and cross-functional stakeholders, participates in operational assessments and site visits, and supports projects involving network optimization, standardization, performance management, and logistics technology. Travel to manufacturing and logistics locations throughout North America may be required.

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, including the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and communicate findings.
• Proficiency in Excel for data organization, analysis, and reporting; working knowledge of PowerPoint and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Basic understanding of financial concepts, cost analysis, and business performance metrics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to prepare clear summaries, reports, and presentations.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to manage assigned tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate across functions and organizational levels, receive feedback, and adapt.
• Willingness to travel to manufacturing and logistics locations throughout North America as required.
• Self-motivated, curious, accountable, adaptable, results-oriented, and comfortable working with data and unfamiliar problems.

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, Toyota Production System (TPS), or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exposure to ERP or WMS platforms, such as Oracle or SAP.
• Foundational understanding of Industrial Engineering principles, process improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Understanding of process mapping, standard work, data-driven problem-solving, facility layout, material flow, labor productivity, logistics optimization, warehousing, transportation, and supply chain management.
• Ability to learn and use ERP, WMS, and business intelligence systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist with analyzing Denso's North American logistics network to identify opportunities for efficiency, cost reduction, and improved space utilization.
• Collect, organize, validate, and maintain data on external warehouses, transportation, inventory, facility utilization, and logistics costs.
• Support evaluations of warehouse utilization, inventory positioning, transportation routes, and distribution strategies.
• Assist in developing and comparing logistics network optimization scenarios, including warehouse consolidation and facility utilization improvements.
• Research and benchmark logistics practices and prepare analytical summaries and materials for department leadership.
• Analyze data to identify operational trends, performance gaps, and improvement opportunities; develop and maintain Excel-based analytical tools, reports, and performance tracking mechanisms.
• Assist with monitoring logistics performance indicators and developing financial analyses and business cases for proposed improvements.
• Ensure data accuracy and communicate findings through summaries, charts, and presentations.
• Support the development and deployment of standardized logistics processes, methodologies, and best practices across North American operations.
• Document logistics processes, standard work, and operational procedures; participate in operational assessments to identify inefficiencies and waste.
• Support initiatives involving labor productivity, standard work, facility layout optimization, and operational efficiency, including sharing successful practices across locations (Yokoten).
• Support NALD project leaders with project planning and execution, including schedules, milestones, action items, progress monitoring, documentation, and status reports.
• Coordinate information gathering and follow-up with manufacturing sites and cross-functional stakeholders; participate in project meetings, site assessments, and working sessions.
• Identify and communicate project risks, delays, and issues to project leadership, and take ownership of assigned tasks and deliverables.
• Support evaluations of logistics technologies, automation solutions, digital tools, and automation feasibility; research technology trends and potential applications.
• Develop understanding of warehouse management systems, ERP platforms, and logistics performance tools; support initiatives involving Oracle WMS and other technologies.
• Develop working relationships with site logistics personnel and stakeholders, gather operational feedback, communicate project updates, and collaborate with NALD team members.
• Demonstrate a customer-focused approach when working with manufacturing and logistics operations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• 401(k) 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, including 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