This position is based in Thorlabs headquarters (Newton, NJ). The position is responsible for reviewing and improving our  order cycle process. The position will be responsible for helping to digitize and automate the process using the best industry practices and standards. The position will oversee the automated order fulfillment process and Inventory Control optimizing accuracy, speed, efficiency, and on time delivery. In addition, the position will be responsible to interface with Information Technology teams (IT, ERP, Ecommerce) to align and integrate our existing and future processes and automation. The position will work directly with the Distribution Manager, the BU’s and customer service team to understand and improve the process and technologies currently in use and recommend improvement options. The person will be responsible for documentation, reporting and play a vital role in project management including data metrics. This person will be interfacing with internal and external customers and will carry themselves in a customer-centric, professional manner at all times.   

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

•  Manage and troubleshoot the day-to-day activity of the Autostore system and Bulk order process cycle
• Review existing order fulfillment process, work instructions and update as necessary
• Perform Analysis of Distribution inbound and outbound workflows as well as the packaging processes to provide solutions to maximize efficiency, high quality and reduce waste.
• Strategic approach with developing and implementing process improvements and technology/automation upgrades that help with minimizing costs and resolving order fulfillment issues.
• Assist with Distribution Center process flow models to predict bottlenecks and resources needed for order processing
• Help support the conceptual and detailed design and testing of the automation process
• Interact with Kardex, D365, RF Smart, etc. to enhance capabilities and resolve problems
• Develop and manage technical reports and data metrics for the Distibution Center, Components, RMA, etc.
• Understand the architecture and data flow of various interconnected systems
• Provide well-defined and documented business technology solutions including the work instructions
• Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve inventory accuracy problems across multiple systems and applications
• Assist in leading the Cycle Counting program and inventory movements (slotting) for finished goods and components.
• Identify solutions that improve both the business and technical users' experience and productivity
• Create dashboards and various reports showing systems and applications KPIs
• Develop team to support the automation and WMS processes
• Assist in guiding and leading the Inventory Control team and Distribution Analysts
• Work directly with the Distribution Manager, INCO partners, Customer Service, and BU’s
• Directs planning meetings with the different Distribution Centers, manufacturing operational groups, and supply chain to ensure project coordination from a logistical perspective
• Prepare monthly/quarterly/annual Distribution Reports and manage the data integrity
• Lead Distribution Continuos Improvement and quality initiatives.

In addition to the essential functions and duties listed above, all positions are also responsible for:

• Meeting company standards pertaining to quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis, performing all work-related tasks in a manner that is in compliance with all Company policies and procedures.
• Adhering to Company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Qualifications

Experience:

• 5+ years of proven experience in Distribution operations, Order process life cycle, Order process automation, Enterprise ERP systems, and System Integrations.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering, or equivalent with a focus on Order process automation and Integration.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Experience and understanding of the Order process life cycle
• Experience with order process automation and integration  
• Experience with Enterprise ERP systems (MS Dynamics etc)
• Experience with automation, packaging equipment, specifications, qualification/validation process, product/package stability, and packaging components
• Problem-Solving skills – Anticipates and resolves complex problems.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal direction
• Ability to work across boundaries (functional, geographic, external company, etc).
• Thorough technical understanding of the quality systems and regulatory requirements,
• Project management experience
• Ability to prioritize, plan and delegate tasks
• knowledge of MS Office products
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team-based and high-speed environment
• Ability to work weekends and/or travel internationally on occasion
• Demonstrable ability to lead and manage projects
• Proficient in standard logistics software
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills

 Other:

NA

Organizational Relationships

Direct Reports:

This position is directly responsible for the delegation of tasks and daily work production through a Team Lead role.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts.  The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer.  Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.