Continuous Improvement Engineer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois.

📋 Description

• Fosters the Ryder Continuous Improvement culture throughout the operation by actively applying continuous improvement techniques to support operational efficiency.

• Recognizes and implements changes within the operation through data-driven CI, Engineering, and Automation initiatives to achieve enhanced performance in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

• Effectively utilizes data analytics, engineering methodologies, and essential lean tools to facilitate root cause identification and resolution.

• Collaborates with employees at all levels and across various functions within the operation.

• Reports to the Lead Engineer, CI Manager, or Sr. CI Manager and works closely with Operations Management.

• Gathers data and conducts statistical analyses.

• Maps and documents operational processes.

• Independently identifies process deficiencies; suggests and implements process enhancements.

• Creates a comprehensive, effective, and timely continuous improvement plan to deliver value to customers (including the development and execution of transformation plans).

• Leads process improvement initiatives to achieve measurable enhancements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee development.

• Manages and executes CI and steady-state engineering projects that contribute to improved business outcomes.

• Evaluates CI initiatives and offers insights and recommendations for future efforts.

• Assists with Automation projects.

• Frequently engages with operations management.

• Develops proficiency in a broad range of engineering methods, Lean tools, and quality standards applicable to CI, Quality Assurance, and Lean principles.

• Employs engineering methodologies/tools, such as product slotting, labor standards analysis (time studies), process layouts, flow optimization, data profiling and analysis, and resource modeling to enhance distribution and/or transportation operations.

• Participates in the facilitation and execution of Value Stream Maps & Kaizen Events across all stages (including A3 charter ideation/creation, pre-work identification and completion, results delivery during Kaizen week, and consistent follow-up to ensure sustainment).

• Provides regular reports on data and actions taken to measure progress against site objectives.

• Makes recommendations regarding Inventory and/or Supply Chain strategies.

• Maintains the Quality Management System (QMS) in accordance with established company and/or industry standards.

• Implements and oversees a standardized corrective action system.

• Supports compliance with regulatory and certification requirements.

• Carries out all functions associated with Quality Assurance for a startup or expansion.

• Performs additional duties as assigned.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, and three (3) years or more of relevant work experience in the Warehousing, Transportation, or Manufacturing sectors required; or a Master’s degree (in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or Supply Chain Management) with one (1) year of related experience; if holding an MBA, an undergraduate degree in Engineering is required.

• At least 3 years of relevant work experience in the Warehousing, Transportation, or Manufacturing industry.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly in Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio (Advanced level).

• Familiarity with data visualization tools (PowerBI, Tableau, etc.) and database programming (SQL, DAX, etc.) at an Intermediate level.

• Basic understanding of Lean/TPS core tools and processes (e.g., 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, problem-solving) at a Beginner level.

• Knowledge and experience in core engineering and data analysis functions (e.g., slotting, utilization, labor planning, layouts, metrics, etc.) at a Beginner level.

• Proficiency in warehouse design tools such as CAD (e.g., AutoCAD), slotting tools (e.g., Slot3D), predetermined motion and time systems (e.g., MOST), and Warehouse Management Systems (e.g., Manhattan Scale) at a Beginner level.

• Understanding of Warehouse Management operations, data analytics, Industrial Engineering principles, various warehouse types (ambient, temperature-controlled), warehouse layout/design, and Lean methodologies.

• Familiarity with material handling solutions and types of automation including powered industrial truck (PIT) applications, racking and storage solution designs, packaging equipment, conveyor systems, sortation equipment, and other automation solutions (e.g., AS/RS) at an Intermediate level.

• Knowledge of Dedicated Services and Managed Transportation Networks.

• Understanding of all available equipment types, including dry van, temperature control, flatbed, and other specialized equipment.

• Proficient in Transportation Design Tools such as JDA, Appian, Network Design Tools like Llamasoft, and Transportation Management Systems like JDA, OTM, along with Mapping Software like Tableau at an Intermediate level.

• Lean Six Sigma, cPMP, ISO/QMS certifications are preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• Comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• Options for medical, prescription, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability insurance.

• Paid time off for vacation, illness, bereavement, family, and parental leave.

• Tax-advantaged 401(k) retirement savings plan.