The Logistics Engineer will be responsible for driving continuous improvement across the end-to-end material flow process, from supplier delivery through goods-in, storage, replenishment, picking, kitting, and point-of-use presentation within the manufacturing environment. The role will focus on improving operational efficiency, material flow, space utilisation, inventory management, and warehouse processes through the application of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.
The Logistics Engineer will work closely with suppliers, procurement, planning, manufacturing, production, quality, and warehouse teams to develop efficient and sustainable logistics solutions that reduce waste, improve productivity, lower inventory costs, and support operational excellence. This role reports directly to the Planning & Material Logistics Manager.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Health and Safety
- Ensure all logistics and warehouse activities are conducted in compliance with company health, safety, and environmental standards.
- Support the development of safe material handling processes and warehouse operating procedures.
- Conduct risk assessments relating to material flow, storage solutions, packaging, and workplace layout changes.
Material Flow Optimisation
- Analyse and improve material flow from suppliers through to production consumption points.
- Design and implement efficient warehouse layouts, storage systems, and material movement processes.
- Drive the implementation of best-practice line feeding, replenishment, picking, and kitting methodologies.
- Reduce non-value-added activities including transportation, waiting time, excess motion, and inventory.
- Improve warehouse productivity through process redesign and waste elimination initiatives.
- Develop solutions to optimise warehouse capacity, inventory locations, and stock presentation.
- Support warehouse expansion, relocation, or reconfiguration projects as required.
- Establish and maintain warehouse layout standards to improve flow and accessibility.
Supplier Packaging & Logistics Development
- Work directly with suppliers to improve packaging design, delivery methods, labelling, and handling processes.
- Develop/Rollout returnable packaging solutions and standardised logistics packaging where appropriate.
- Improve supplier material presentation to reduce handling, damage, waste, and storage requirements.
- Support supplier development activities aimed at improving inbound logistics performance.
Continuous Improvement
- Lead and support Continuous Improvement projects using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and problem-solving methodologies.
- Conduct value stream mapping exercises to identify opportunities for process improvement throughout the supply chain and warehouse.
- Establish and monitor KPIs relating to warehouse performance, productivity, inventory, and material flow.
Systems & Data Analysis
- Analyse warehouse and supply chain performance data to support operational decision-making.
- Support ERP, WMS, and material control system improvements.
- Develop reporting tools and dashboards to monitor logistics performance.
- Use data analysis to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and cost reduction opportunities.
- Any other reasonable task the manager may deem as suitable for the role.
- 3–5 years' experience within a logistics, warehouse, supply chain, manufacturing engineering, or continuous improvement role.
- Experience working within a manufacturing environment is essential.
- Proven experience of warehouse optimisation, material flow improvement, and process redesign.
- Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Strong understanding of inventory management and material control processes.
- Experience working directly with suppliers to improve packaging, delivery methods, and material presentation.
- Experience of warehouse layout design and space utilisation projects.
- Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
- Experience using ERP and/or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
- Working knowledge of Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, 5 Why, Fishbone Analysis, and PDCA methodologies.
- Degree educated in Supply Chain, Logistics, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering or equivalent experience is desirable.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or above desirable.
Competencies
- Ability to work independently and manage improvement projects.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organisational and planning capability.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to influence stakeholders across multiple departments.
- Confident communication and presentation skills.
- Effective team player.
- Strong commercial awareness and cost-conscious mindset.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Results-oriented with a continuous improvement mentality.
- Highly motivated with the ability to build effective internal and external relationships.
- Customer-focused and operationally driven.
Free on site Parking
Company Pension
Flexible working
Death in Service
Employee Assistance Programme including trained Mental Health First Aiders and on demand GP service
Employee Mortgages Services
Eye test vouchers and annual flu jab
Onsite gym for £4 per month
EV Car Scheme
Cycle to Work Scheme
Will writing Service
Long service awards
Walker Thrive Benefit Platform that includes store discounts
Enhanced support for maternity and paternity leave
Christmas Savings Club
Opportunity for professional growth and development
1pm finish on a Friday
On-Site
This role requires you to work on-site at Washington, Tyne and Wear UK. You will be part of a dynamic team and enjoy the benefits of face-to-face collaboration.
Talent Acquisition Team: [email protected]
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