Automation & Solutions Engineer

Summary

McLane is a distribution industry company seeking an Automation & Solutions Engineer to design and implement automation solutions across its distribution center network. The role focuses on material handling technologies, facility design, process automation, ROI analysis, and project implementation to improve efficiency, scalability, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop automated material handling equipment (MHE) solutions that improve distribution center performance and efficiency
• Analyze facility workflows and operational processes to identify automation opportunities and optimize system design
• Create detailed facility layouts, schematics, and design documentation using AutoCAD and other engineering design tools
• Evaluate and recommend automation technologies, including conveyors, sortation systems, robotics, and other advanced solutions
• Conduct ROI analyses to assess emerging technologies and support strategic investment decisions
• Partner with operations teams, engineers, vendors, and stakeholders to deliver automation projects from concept through implementation
• Utilize simulation and modeling tools to validate designs and ensure throughput, safety, and operational objectives are achieved
• Lead design reviews and provide technical oversight during installation and implementation activities
• Develop presentations and visual materials to communicate project designs and recommendations
• Research emerging automation trends and recommend innovative solutions that support long-term network growth and scalability

Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline; equivalent relevant experience may be considered
• Three or more years of experience developing and implementing automation projects within an industrial, manufacturing, logistics, or distribution environment
• Experience working with automated material handling systems (MHE), process automation, or supply chain technologies
• Experience with facility design, infrastructure planning, and capital equipment acquisition
• Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD
• Knowledge of industrial automation systems, sensors, controls, and process engineering concepts
• Familiarity with automation technologies, conveyors, sortation systems, robotics, and related MHE solutions
• Strong Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to develop practical, scalable solutions
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Curiosity and passion for emerging technologies, automation trends, and continuous improvement
• Collaborative mindset with a desire to drive innovation and operational excellence
• This position requires the ability to read, write, and understand English at a level sufficient to perform job-related tasks effectively and safely. This includes understanding work instructions, safety protocols, and communications essential to the role
• This is a fully remote position, but candidates must be willing and able to travel to support on-site assessments, project implementation, and collaboration across McLane's distribution network
• Distribution center, warehouse automation, or automation integration experience preferred
• SolidWorks experience preferred
• SQL experience preferred

Qualifications

Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline; equivalent relevant experience may be considered
• Three or more years of experience developing and implementing automation projects within an industrial, manufacturing, logistics, or distribution environment
• Experience working with automated material handling systems (MHE), process automation, or supply chain technologies
• Experience with facility design, infrastructure planning, and capital equipment acquisition
• Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD
• Knowledge of industrial automation systems, sensors, controls, and process engineering concepts
• Familiarity with automation technologies, conveyors, sortation systems, robotics, and related MHE solutions
• Strong Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to develop practical, scalable solutions
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Curiosity and passion for emerging technologies, automation trends, and continuous improvement
• Collaborative mindset with a desire to drive innovation and operational excellence
• This position requires the ability to read, write, and understand English at a level sufficient to perform job-related tasks effectively and safely. This includes understanding work instructions, safety protocols, and communications essential to the role
• This is a fully remote position, but candidates must be willing and able to travel to support on-site assessments, project implementation, and collaboration across McLane's distribution network

Nice to Haves

• Distribution center, warehouse automation, or automation integration experience preferred
• SolidWorks experience preferred
• SQL experience preferred

Benefits

• This role is also eligible to participate in the annual incentive plan with a target incentive of 12.5% of your base annual salary.
• Day 1 Benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, FSA/HSA, and company-paid life insurance
• Paid time off begins day one.
• 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan after 90 days.
• Pet insurance
• Maternity/paternity leave
• Employee assistance programs
• Discount programs
• Tuition reimbursement program
• This is a fully remote position