Engineer, Material Flow

Slate Auto; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Slate is seeking an Engineer, Material Flow to design and optimize material flow systems across warehouse and manufacturing environments in the USA. The role emphasizes lean principles, line balancing, and cross-functional collaboration to improve delivery efficiency and factory logistics.

Relocation to Warsaw, Indiana is supported with assistance. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years in material flow, strong AutoCAD/ERP/Microsoft Excel skills, and the ability to lead complex projects

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering or related field; 3+ years in material flow or logistics.
• Hands-on experience with material handling equipment from concept through operations.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, simulation tools, ERP systems, and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize material flow from warehouse to point-of-use.
• Implement lineside replenishment systems to improve delivery.
• Develop layouts for material handling to maximize space.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align with schedules.
• Lead pull systems with balanced stock at use points.
• Manage PFEP, analyzing volumes, packaging, and transport.
• Conduct simulations to identify congestion and shortages.
• Oversee equipment from concept to deployment.
• Evaluate new tech for warehouse optimization and ROI.
• Support cost optimization and lean line presentation.
• Present business cases to leadership and manage budgets.

Skills

Material flow design

Lean manufacturing

Project management

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

Simulation tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Excel

Job description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Slate is seeking a highly driven Engineer, Material Flow to lead the design, analysis, and continuous improvement of material flow systems across warehouse and manufacturing environments. This role is critical in developing and implementing strategies that enhance material delivery efficiency, productivity, and overall factory logistics.

The ideal candidate will bring hands‑on experience in high-volume automotive manufacturing, with deep expertise in material flow design, handling systems, and Lean manufacturing principles. This role requires strong collaboration across departments and the ability to manage complex projects from concept through execution.

* Must be willing to relocate to Warsaw, Indiana. Relocation assistance will be provided. *

WHAT YOU GET TO DO

• Design and optimize material flow from warehouse to point-of-use using lean manufacturing principles.
• Implement lineside material replenishment systems (e.g., eKanban) to automate material calls and improve delivery efficiency.
• Develop and maintain layouts for material handling systems, maximizing warehouse and production floor space.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (Manufacturing, Logistics, IT, Quality, Purchasing, Suppliers) to align material flow with production schedules.
• Lead implementation of pull systems with balanced stock levels at each point of use.
• Manage and maintain the Plan for Every Part (PFEP), analyzing volumes, packaging, transportation, and delivery methods.
• Conduct static and dynamic simulations to identify and mitigate congestion and part shortages.
• Oversee material handling equipment from concept through procurement and operational deployment (e.g., forklifts, tuggers, AGVs / AGCs, carts, racks, low‑cost automation).
• Research and evaluate new technologies in material handling and warehouse optimisation; develop ROI‑based business cases.
• Support cost optimisation initiatives, including workstation density and material presentation improvements.
• Apply lean principles such as line balancing, waste elimination, and error‑proofing.
• Present material flow strategies and business cases to leadership; manage capital and operational budgets.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. Master’s degree is preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in material flow, logistics, or industrial engineering, preferably in the automotive industry or another high‑volume manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience managing material handling equipment from concept to operations.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, simulation tools, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Self‑starter with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with fork‑free material delivery strategies, AGVs / AGCs, including kitting / sequencing cells and lean lineside presentation.
• Familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and material tracking technologies.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must have the ability to travel (up to 20%).
• Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
• Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start‑up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

• Safety First
• Delight Customers
• One Team
• Relentless Improvement
• Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy
• Respectful Collaboration
• Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organisational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

[e-mail].