Factory Layout Optimization SME
Duration: 4.5 Weeks (Possible Extension)
Work Location: Remote, with travel to Detroit, Michigan.
Onsite Requirement: Must be available to work at the client site for 1–2 weeks during the project.
Travel Expenses: Travel-related expenses will be covered by the project.
Project Overview
We are seeking an experienced Automotive Logistics / Factory Layout Optimization SME for a short-term project focused on warehouse capacity, facility layout, inventory placement, and material flow optimization.
The SME will assess future-state automotive logistics operations, storage requirements, inventory placement, and logistics capacity constraints associated with new program introductions and facility changes.
The role involves working with operations, industrial engineering, planning, and other operational teams to evaluate current assumptions, identify risks, and recommend practical improvements to warehouse utilization, inventory placement, material flow, and automation opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
Assess whether future production programs can be accommodated within existing facility constraints.
Evaluate inventory and material storage requirements.
Review warehouse and logistics operating center (LOC) footprint utilization.
Assess the impact of throughput growth, new programs, and facility changes.
Support material flow and logistics scenario planning.
Identify operational risks, capacity constraints, and optimization opportunities.
Provide rapid, actionable recommendations to support operational planning decisions.
Required Qualifications
10+ years of experience in automotive logistics, in-plant logistics, warehousing, industrial engineering, or material flow design.
Experience supporting automotive OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, supplier parks, or third-party logistics operations.
Experience with sequencing, kitting, line-side replenishment, and JIT/JIS manufacturing environments.
Strong understanding of warehouse footprint requirements, space utilization, material flow strategies, inventory placement, and storage capacity.
Ability to rapidly assess and challenge operational assumptions.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in greenfield warehouse or logistics facility design.
Experience supporting facility expansions, footprint reductions, or logistics transformations.
Participation in logistics or facility simulation initiatives.
Exposure to warehouse automation technologies, including AMRs, AGVs, ASRS, and goods-to-person systems.
Experience with material handling system selection or justification.
Project Deliverables
Assessment of LOC and warehouse space utilization.
Identification of key planning assumptions.
Recommendations for inventory placement and storage strategies.
Identification of automation opportunities and constraints.
