Automation engineer Jobs in Downey, CA

Position Summary

We are building a state-of-the-art, 250,000 sq. ft. automated fulfillment and distribution facility designed to set new standards in speed, efficiency, and technology integration.

We are seeking a hands-on warehouse leader with deep expertise in designing, building, and running world-class distribution centers-someone who has previously launched or managed advanced operations at companies like Amazon, Ship Bob, or Flex port.

The ideal candidate will lead this project from the ground up - overseeing layout design, automation planning, WMS and ERP integration, staffing, and operational readiness. This is a rare opportunity to create a showcase facility that becomes a benchmark for modern fulfillment excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Warehouse Setup & Facility Buildout

• Lead full greenfield warehouse setup - from site layout, racking, conveyors, robotics, and automation planning to facility commissioning.
• Design workflows for maximum efficiency, speed, and scalability while ensuring safety and compliance.
• Collaborate with architects, automation vendors, and general contractors to optimize space utilization and throughput capacity.
• Develop project timeline, budget, and milestones; ensure on-time delivery and adherence to all operational readiness KPIs.
• Oversee procurement and installation of MHE (Material Handling Equipment), robotics, AS/RS systems, and smart inventory tracking tools.

Technology & Systems Integration

• Oversee the design and implementation of advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), integrated with ERP (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, Manhattan).
• Lead automation roadmap - including barcode/RFID systems, conveyor logic, robotic picking, and AI-driven inventory management.
• Evaluate and integrate IoT sensors, dashboards, and predictive analytics for real-time operational visibility.
• Coordinate with IT to ensure seamless system connectivity across platforms (ERP, WMS, TMS, EDI).

Operations Leadership

• Build, hire, and train a high-performing operations team across inbound, picking, packing, shipping, and returns.
• Establish KPIs and SOPs for efficiency, safety, and accuracy.
• Create a continuous-improvement culture using Lean/Six Sigma principles.
• Oversee daily warehouse operations post-launch, ensuring best-in-class order fulfillment and inventory accuracy.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Partner with automation and WMS solution providers, 3PLs, and logistics vendors for technology and process alignment.
• Liaise with internal cross-functional teams - Supply Chain, IT, Finance, and Executive Leadership - to deliver on business objectives.
• Negotiate contracts and oversee vendor performance to ensure high ROI and on-budget project delivery.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Industrial Engineering, Logistics, or a related field (Master's preferred).

Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive warehouse management experience in large-scale or automated facilities (>200,000 sq. ft.).
• Proven record of building new facilities from ground up (greenfield projects preferred).
• Strong background in WMS selection, configuration, and implementation.
• Familiarity with robotics, conveyor systems, AS/RS, and IoT-enabled warehouses.
• Demonstrated success managing large teams (30-50 associates) across multiple shifts.
• Certifications: Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or APICS certification preferred.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Planning & Execution
• WMS / ERP / Automation Integration
• Warehouse Design & Layout Optimization
• Leadership & Team Building
• Process Engineering & Continuous Improvement
• Safety, Quality & Compliance Management
• Vendor & Contractor Coordination
• Budget & Timeline Management

Performance Metrics

• Successful completion of warehouse setup within budget and schedule
• Full operational readiness and WMS go-live
• Automation uptime and order throughput rates
• Inventory accuracy (target 99.9%+)
• Labor productivity and cost optimization
• Safety performance and zero-incident culture