Systems Engineer 3

DENSO•Maryville, TN

3d•$96,000 - $120,000

About The Position

The Logistics Network Design Specialist supports the development, evaluation, and implementation of strategic logistics network improvements across Denso's North American manufacturing and distribution operations. The role works cross-functionally with manufacturing sites, logistics operations, procurement, finance, and other stakeholders to identify opportunities to optimize the network, improve operational efficiency, reduce total logistics costs, and establish standardized logistics practices. The position uses data analysis, process engineering, project management, and continuous improvement methodologies to evaluate network-wide opportunities and develop sustainable solutions. It balances individual site requirements with broader North American logistics network objectives so local decisions support overall business optimization. The role also evaluates logistics technologies and automation, supports standardized logistics processes, develops analytical tools and performance measures, and leads or supports improvement projects from assessment through implementation and sustainment. Travel to manufacturing and logistics locations throughout North America is required as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, or a related field.
At least 5 years of related experience in logistics, supply chain, industrial engineering, manufacturing operations, or network optimization.
Experience working within a multi-site manufacturing or distribution network.
Experience leading cross-functional improvement projects.
Experience developing logistics network analyses, warehouse optimization studies, or transportation cost reduction initiatives.
Experience with Oracle, SAP, or other ERP/WMS platforms.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including translating complex operational data into actionable recommendations.
Experience with logistics network design, distribution operations, warehousing, transportation, or supply chain optimization.
Strong understanding of logistics cost structures, including warehousing, transportation, inventory carrying costs, and total cost of logistics.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and data visualization or business intelligence tools.
Ability to develop financial analyses, business cases, and investment justifications.
Understanding of warehouse operations, inventory management, material flow, and manufacturing logistics.
Familiarity with ERP/WMS platforms and logistics technology solutions.
Knowledge of Industrial Engineering principles, Lean Manufacturing, Toyota Production System, and continuous improvement methodologies.
Ability to evaluate operational processes, identify inefficiencies, and develop practical improvement solutions.
Understanding of labor productivity measurement, standard work, capacity planning, and facility layout principles.
Ability to assess operational readiness and process stability before recommending automation or technology investments.
Strong project management and organizational skills, including managing multiple initiatives simultaneously.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive projects to completion without relying solely on direct authority.
Strong communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to influence decision-making and gain alignment across multiple organizational levels.
Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and take ownership of assigned initiatives.
Willingness to travel to manufacturing and logistics locations throughout North America as required.

Responsibilities

Analyze the North American logistics network to identify opportunities for efficiency, cost reduction, and improved space utilization.
Evaluate external warehouse utilization, inventory positioning, warehouse footprint, transportation routes, and distribution strategies.
Develop and evaluate network optimization scenarios, including warehouse consolidation, facility utilization, transportation restructuring, and logistics footprint redesign.
Conduct total logistics cost analyses and develop recommendations that prioritize network-wide optimization.
Support the development and maintenance of long-term North American logistics network strategies.
Collect, organize, and analyze logistics operational and financial data to identify improvement opportunities.
Develop analytical tools, dashboards, and reports to support data-driven logistics decisions.
Establish and monitor logistics performance indicators related to cost, productivity, space utilization, transportation, and operational efficiency.
Perform financial evaluations and develop business cases for proposed improvement initiatives, including capital investment analysis where applicable.
Identify performance gaps, investigate root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
Support the development and deployment of standardized logistics processes, methodologies, and best practices across North American operations.
Promote Toyota Production System (TPS), Lean, and continuous improvement principles in logistics operations.
Evaluate logistics processes to identify waste, productivity, and operational flow improvements.
Support standard work, labor productivity measurement, and operational performance management systems.
Facilitate sharing and replication of successful improvement initiatives across manufacturing and logistics locations (Yokoten).
Lead or support cross-functional logistics improvement projects from initial assessment through implementation and sustainment.
Develop project scopes, schedules, milestones, risk assessments, and implementation plans.
Coordinate with site leadership and functional stakeholders to align and execute network improvement initiatives.
Monitor project performance against objectives, timelines, and financial targets; communicate progress, risks, and recommendations to leadership and stakeholders.
Verify that implemented improvements deliver their intended operational and financial benefits.
Evaluate emerging logistics technologies, automation solutions, and digital tools for applicability to North American operations.
Assess automation opportunities against operational readiness, process stability, TPS principles, and financial justification.
Support standardized approaches to logistics technology deployment and collaborate with IT and operational stakeholders on use of systems such as Oracle WMS.
Evaluate technology investments based on their contribution to long-term network efficiency and business objectives.
Build working relationships with site logistics leadership and cross-functional stakeholders throughout North America.
Understand site-level operational challenges and identify opportunities for NALD support.
Facilitate cross-functional discussions to align stakeholders on network-wide improvement initiatives.
Communicate analytical findings and strategic recommendations clearly to operational and executive audiences.
Promote a collaborative, customer-focused approach to logistics network design and continuous improvement.
Travel to manufacturing and logistics locations throughout North America as required.

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 (vary by location)
Onsite health clinic and pharmacy (vary by location)