The Role We are seeking a Senior Execution Engineer – Material Flow & Robotics Deployment to join the Autonomous Robotics Center (ARC) – Manufacturing Systems Design and Deployment organization. This role focuses on identifying, developing, and deploying automation technologies to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency across manufacturing environments. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, strategic suppliers, and plant partners to implement innovative automation solutions, including AMRs, AFTs, ASRS, and advanced kitting/sequencing systems. The role requires strong technical execution, strategic planning, and cross-functional coordination from concept through launch.
What You’ll Do
- Lead deployment of automation technologies including AMRs, AFTs, ASRS, and kitting/sequencing systems
- Identify and evaluate automation opportunities in collaboration with ARC Solutions Teams to reduce waste and improve efficiency
- Conduct labor studies using GMOS and analyze indirect material movement in partnership with Assembly Plant IEs
- Determine unit counts for automation routes and commodities based on operational needs
- Support layout reviews and process optimization through simulation and analysis
- Collaborate with ARC Simulation and Solution Teams from project PO through execution
- Optimize material flow through automation, developing future-state processes and roadmaps
- Develop and implement automation strategies with timing and cost considerations
- Partner with Material Execution Leads, Manufacturing Innovation Teams, and Engineering Center Leads to drive continuous improvement
- Work directly with strategic suppliers and plant partners to develop and execute automation initiatives
- Resolve issues with containerization, logistics, and GPSC partners to enable successful automation deployment
- Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed automation projects
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Product Engineering, Manufacturing Ops, IT) to ensure seamless integration
- Develop PMP plans, PCP assignments, JES/TIS revisions, and coordinate ULOC/DLOC and CMA documentation
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
- 5+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing, automation deployment, or material flow engineering
- Hands-on experience deploying and integrating automation technologies such as:
- Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) with fleet management systems
- Automated Fork Trucks (AFTs) with safety-rated navigation and control systems
- Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) with warehouse control software
- Proficiency in using labor analysis tools to conduct indirect labor studies and quantify automation impact
- Experience with layout optimization tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Siemens Tecnomatix, or FlexSim)
- Familiarity with PLC programming, robotic cell integration, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., OPC UA, Modbus, Ethernet/IP)
- Ability to develop and manage PMP plans, PCP assignments, and revise operational documentation including JES/TIS, ULOC/DLOC, and CMA coordination
- Strong analytical skills in conducting feasibility studies, cost-benefit analyses, and ROI modeling
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and resolve deployment issues involving containerization and logistics
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field or equivalent experience
What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
- Experience with digital twin modeling, simulation environments, or virtual commissioning of automation systems
- Familiarity with Factory of the Future concepts including AI-driven material flow, predictive analytics, and smart warehousing
- Background in launch planning for unionized manufacturing environments, including safety integration and ergonomic assessments
- Knowledge of robotic standards and safety protocols (e.g., ANSI/RIA R15.06, ISO 10218)
- Experience collaborating with external automation vendors and integrators to co-develop custom material handling solutions
- Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau)
- Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity and drive innovation in fast-paced, high-variability manufacturing environments
