Sr Industrial Engineer, Optimization

3M; Illinois; On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

3M is seeking a Sr. Industrial Engineer, Optimization to enhance operations across our distribution centers in Dekalb, IL. You will drive projects related to network optimization and implement innovative solutions. With a background in industrial engineering and experience in supply chain optimization tools, you will work closely with various teams to streamline operations.

The position demands strong leadership and communication skills, with up to 25% travel required. Join us to collaborate with other innovative minds at 3M.

Qualifications

• Five years of experience in network optimization within a distribution or supply chain.
• Experience with ETL tools such as Alteryx or TableauPrep.
• Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma and distribution automation technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize network and automation systems.
• Lead cross-functional projects to streamline processes.
• Manage financial aspects of project teams.

Skills

Communication skills

Leadership abilities

Problem-solving skills

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in industrial/manufacturing engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Llamasoft Supply Chain Guru

SQL

Alteryx

TableauPrep

Job description

Sr Industrial Engineer, Optimization

Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World. Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the company that you choose to work at, and its leaders, will support and guide you. With a wide variety of people, global locations, technologies, and products, 3M is a place where you can collaborate with other curious, creative 3Mers.

Impact

As a Sr. Industrial Engineer, Optimization at a 3M distribution center, you will play a pivotal role in driving operations excellence across our distribution centers. Your primary focus will be designing, implementing and optimizing network, advanced automation systems, labor management programs and continuous improvement projects. You will leverage your expertise in Industrial engineering to enhance productivity, efficiency, and quality within our operations.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including logistics, IT and operations, to lead projects that streamline processes, reduce costs and elevate our distribution capabilities.
• Lead and model supply chain network optimization scenarios, redesign distribution networks to improve cost efficiency, accuracy and throughput.
• Identify, analyze, and lead improvement projects across distribution centers, focusing on process optimization, cost reduction and efficiency gains.
• Work closely with cross‑functional teams, including Operations, IT and Supply Chain, to ensure seamless integration of industrial engineering solutions and alignment with broader business goals.
• Manage financial aspects of a project team, including estimating expenditures, contributing to the creation of AFE, purchasing materials and/or services, monitoring and tracking costs, and payment.
• Lead business relationships across multi‑disciplinary teams, provide guidance and training to interns, new hires and other engineers, and participate in or lead standards/guidelines teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in industrial/manufacturing engineering, operations research, statistics, or business from an accredited institution.
• Five years of experience in network optimization within a distribution, supply chain or logistics environment in a private, public, government or military environment.
• Five years of experience in supply chain network optimization tools such as Llamasoft Supply Chain Guru, Optilogic, JDA Strategist or Gurobi and industrial engineering methodologies.
• Three years of experience with ETL tools such as Alteryx or TableauPrep, SQL, analytics and project management tools.
• Excellent communication skills and proven leadership and teamwork abilities, with a track record of successfully managing cross‑functional projects.
• Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma, labor management systems and distribution automation technologies.
• Problem‑solving skills, demonstrated ability to analyze complex systems and processes, identify inefficiencies and develop innovative engineering solutions.
• Master’s degree from an accredited institution (preferred).

Location & Travel

• Dekalb, IL – on‑site.
• Maplewood, MN – on‑site office 4 days a week.

Travel may include up to 25% domestic/international.

Relocation assistance may be authorized.

Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).

Legal and EEO Statement

3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.