Systems Engineer 3

Denso•Maryville, TN

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 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. It uses data analysis, process engineering, project management, and continuous improvement methods to evaluate network-wide opportunities and develop sustainable solutions, balancing site-level needs with broader North American network objectives. The position analyzes warehouse utilization, inventory positioning, warehouse footprint, transportation routes, distribution strategies, and network optimization scenarios. It develops logistics performance measures and financial analyses, supports standardized processes and continuous improvement, and leads or supports cross-functional projects from assessment through implementation and sustainment. It also evaluates logistics technology and automation opportunities, including use of systems such as Oracle WMS, and builds working relationships across North American sites and functions. 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.
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 the ability to manage 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 decisions and gain alignment across 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 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 cost of logistics analyses and support long-term North American logistics network strategies.
Collect, organize, and analyze operational and financial logistics data; develop analytical tools, dashboards, and reporting mechanisms.
Establish and monitor logistics performance indicators related to cost, productivity, space utilization, transportation, and operational efficiency.
Perform financial evaluations and develop business cases for logistics improvement initiatives, including capital investment analyses where applicable.
Identify performance gaps, investigate root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
Support standardized logistics processes, methodologies, best practices, and the application of TPS, Lean, and continuous improvement principles.
Evaluate logistics processes and support standard work, labor productivity measurement, and operational performance management systems.
Facilitate the sharing and replication of successful improvements 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 stakeholders and monitor project performance against objectives, timelines, and financial targets.
Communicate project progress, risks, and recommendations, and verify that implemented improvements deliver intended benefits.
Evaluate logistics technologies, automation solutions, and digital tools for applicability, operational readiness, process stability, TPS alignment, and financial justification.
Collaborate with IT and operational stakeholders on opportunities to use systems such as Oracle WMS to improve visibility, productivity measurement, and performance management.
Develop relationships with site logistics leadership and cross-functional stakeholders, understand site challenges, and align stakeholders around network-wide initiatives.
Communicate analytical findings and strategic recommendations to operational and executive audiences and promote a collaborative, customer-focused approach.
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
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)