Workforce Optimization Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

• Health/Rx
• Dental
• Vision
• Flexible and health spending accounts (FSA/HSA)
• Supplemental life insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Paid sick time
• Short term & long term disability coverage (STD/LTD)
• Employee stock ownership (ESOP)
• Holiday pay for company designated holidays

At KeHE, we’re obsessed with creating solutions, unboxing potential, and serving others – and it all starts with you. As an employee-owned distributor of natural and organic, specialty, and fresh products, we’re committed to making a positive impact and scaling our success together. With a culture that fosters development and opportunity, you’ll be embarking on a career that’s moving forward. When you join KeHE, you’re becoming part of a team that is a force for good.

The Senior Manager of Industrial Engineering will be responsible for optimizing distribution center operations across multiple sites by applying their expertise in project management, Red Prairie/JDA/Blue Yonder Labor Management, time studies, AutoCAD, and Lean engineering principles. This role will lead a team of industrial engineers and be a critical role in improving efficiency, reducing operational costs, and enhancing overall performance within our distribution network. As with all positions at KeHE Distributors, we expect that all actions will be consistent with KeHE’s Mission, Vision, and Values.

DUTIES, TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages a team of industrial engineers to ensure labor standards are fair and accurate at all distribution centers.
• Leads and manages industrial engineering projects, including the implementation of JDA/Blue Yonder (Labor Management System, LMS) from conception to completion, ensuring timelines and objectives are met.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to coordinate project activities and resources.
• Utilizes JDA Labor Management software to develop and implement labor standards, ensuring accurate labor forecasting, performance tracking, and workforce optimization.
• Utilizes AutoCAD software to design and layout efficient distribution center floor plans, optimizing space utilization and flow of materials.
• Maintains Engineered Labor Standards, including the following:
  • Develops engineered labor standards for new processes and facilities.
  • Conducts time studies to update and validate engineered / RE standards (MSD / PST / MOST) as needed.
  • Manages existing standards and periodically verifies standards and observation methods.
  • Identifies and implements improvements in preferred methods, procedures, equipment, or workflows.
  • Conducts supervisor and employee meetings to review enhancements to procedures, equipment, and/or standards.
  • Maintains LMS by ensuring any changes to existing standards or new standards are accurate.
  • Maintains complete records of all-time studies or other data used to change standards.
  • Maintains Labor Standards to reflect changes in preferred methods, equipment, or standards.
• Stays current with industry trends and best practices in distribution and process engineering to proactively identify innovative solutions.
• Fosters a mindset of operational excellence and efficiency across all levels of the organization.
• Trains and mentors others in effective engineering principles and use of labor management systems.
• Other duties and projects as assigned.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to lead and manage a team.
• Ability to identify and resolve conflicts as well as improve processes.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI, Access).
• Ability to manage and lead multiple projects or tasks simultaneously at multiple sites, ensuring consistent implementation and successful outcomes.

• Ability to interpret data into meaningful solutions.
• Demonstrates a keen attention to detail.

• Ability to be results-oriented, self-directed and solve problems in a professional manner.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Possess strong analytical and project management skills.
• Advanced skills in AutoCAD for creating efficient distribution center layouts and floor plans.
• Strong understanding of Lean principles.
• Strong expertise in conducting time studies, process analysis, and workflow optimization.
• Proficiency in using JDA/Blue Yonder Labor Management software for labor forecasting, scheduling, and performance measurement.
• Ability to travel periodically, multi-state by airplane, rail, rental, or personal motor vehicle about 50%+ of the time.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7+ years in distribution process engineering, with a focus on JDA Labor Management, time studies, AutoCAD, and Lean engineering principles.
• Minimum of 4+ years in managing engineering teams.
• Experience implementing Lean projects.
• Lean or Six Sigma certifications required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must sit, stand, or walk for extended periods of time.
• May spend long periods of time at a desk or computer terminal.
• May use calculators, keyboards, telephone, and other office equipment during workday.
• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in completion of job duties.
• Work is fast paced; occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7+ years in distribution process engineering, with a focus on JDA Labor Management, time studies, AutoCAD, and Lean engineering principles.
• Minimum of 4+ years in managing engineering teams.
• Experience implementing Lean projects.
• Lean or Six Sigma certifications required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must sit, stand, or walk for extended periods of time.
• May spend long periods of time at a desk or computer terminal.
• May use calculators, keyboards, telephone, and other office equipment during workday.
• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in completion of job duties.
• Work is fast paced; occasional evening and weekend work may be required.