Director of Distribution Engineering

About the role

The Director of Distribution Engineering is responsible for optimizing distribution operations, improving efficiency, and maximizing return on investment across the organization's domestic distribution network. This role provides leadership and technical expertise in areas including distribution facility layouts, processes, and operational methods; equipment standards and optimization; Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives; capital budgeting, planning, and project execution; and distribution engineering, facility equipment maintenance, and technology-related initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, development, and execution of major capital projects and process improvement initiatives focused on improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing productivity.
• Develop and optimize distribution layouts, processes, equipment standards, and operating methods utilizing Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Partner with plant and operational leaders to establish project priorities, provide status updates, and ensure timelines, budgets, and deliverables are achieved.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to identify opportunities, resolve challenges, allocate resources, and improve overall facility performance.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance related to distribution engineering, automation, equipment improvements, and process optimization.
• Support research, development, and implementation of new materials, technologies, and processes impacting distribution operations.
• Evaluate complex technical challenges and provide recommendations impacting capital investments, operational standards, and business performance.
• Lead, mentor, coach, and develop engineering team members while establishing clear priorities, expectations, and performance objectives.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and continuous improvement efforts as part of broader supply chain and operational strategies.
• Support talent development, succession planning, and workforce development initiatives to ensure the organization maintains strong technical capabilities.

Requirements

• Required Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering required; Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• Required Experience: 5+ years of experience leading engineering projects, process improvements, or operational initiatives; 3+ years of experience in engineering leadership, project management, financial analysis, and team development; Experience within distribution, manufacturing, automation, or material handling environments preferred.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of engineering principles applied within distribution, manufacturing, or operational environments.
• Experience with distribution automation, material handling systems, equipment optimization, and process improvement.
• Knowledge of feasibility studies, cost justification, capital planning, and return-on-investment analysis.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead complex initiatives from concept through completion.
• Understanding of Lean principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and operational excellence.
• Ability to analyze financial data, develop business cases, and communicate operational impacts in financial terms.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels of an organization.
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive organizational change.
• Strong decision-making skills with the ability to balance technical, operational, and financial considerations.

Skills

• Technical knowledge in distribution, manufacturing, or operational environments.
• Business acumen and leadership capability.
• Ability to translate operational challenges into financial impact and develop solutions that support long-term business growth strategies.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Company's 401(k) retirement plan.

Pay

Determining compensation for this role (and others) at Vaco/Highspring depends upon a wide array of factors including but not limited to the individual's skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, office location and other geographic considerations, as well as other business and organizational needs. With that said, as required by local law in geographies that require salary range disclosure, Vaco/Highspring notes the salary range for the role is noted in this job posting.

Schedule

Direct Hire, Onsite

Pay

$150,000 - $160,000/year + Bonus