What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Manager- Cranbury, NJ position at Kuehne Nagel?
As a Contract Logistics Specialist at Kuehne Nagel, you will manage end-to-end warehousing operations for our customers. By doing so with precision, you not only contribute to the success of your team, but also to the day-to-day operations and success in the warehouse and distribution centres. For example, storing and delivering delicate flowers and fresh ingredients to local stores for everyday lunches and family celebrations. At Kuehne Nagel, our work truly contributes to more than we imagine.
Are you thinking about advancing your career with one of the most successful logistics organizations worldwide? Here at Kuehne Nagel, our Cranbury, New Jersey location is looking for a new Automation Engineer/Continuous Improvement Engineer to join our team.
As a Warehouse Automation Manager, you’ll play a key role in overseeing the implementation, optimization, and maintenance of automated systems in a warehouse or distribution center. Here's what you can typically expect in this role:
Automation System Management
- Oversee installation, integration, and operation of automated warehouse technologies (e.g., conveyors, AS/RS, AGVs, robotics, WMS).
- Ensure systems are running efficiently and troubleshoot when issues arise.
Project Management
- Lead automation projects from planning through execution, including vendor selection, timelines, budgeting, and risk management.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams (IT, Engineering, Operations, Maintenance).
Process Improvement
- Analyze warehouse processes and data to identify inefficiencies.
- Implement automation solutions to improve throughput, accuracy, and cost-efficiency.
- Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination
- Work with equipment manufacturers, software providers, and internal stakeholders to ensure solutions align with business needs.
Team Leadership
- Manage technicians or engineers responsible for system maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Train warehouse staff on new automation systems or process changes.
- Maintenance Oversight
- Develop preventative maintenance schedules and ensure compliance.
- Minimize downtime and ensure availability of critical components.
- Bachelor’s degree in industrial or mechanical engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 5 years’ experience as a Controls Engineer preferred with strong focus on warehousing heavily automated, involving case conveyors, pallets, sorters, etc.
- Solid understanding of the project life cycle for automated material handling systems.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and/or Minitab and analytical skills with system diagnostics and continuous improvement.
- Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt is a plus.
- PMP certification is a plus.
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Technical Knowledge of:
- PLCs, SCADA systems
- Robotics (e.g., AMRs, robotic arms)
- WMS/WES/WCS (e.g., Manhattan, SAP EWM, Blue Yonder)
- Data analytics tools (Power BI, SQL, Excel)
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Soft Skills:
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Effective communication and collaboration
- Leadership and change management
What's in it for you
There has never been a better time to work in logistics. Bring your skills to an industry that offers stability and international career growth. We offer a great compensation and medical/dental benefits package, employee discounts, tuition reimbursement, excellent training programs, and a fun, and interesting global work environment. #LI-onsite
Kuehne Nagel participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.
Logistics shapes everyday life - from the goods we consume to the healthcare we rely on. At Kuehne Nagel, your work goes beyond logistics; it enables both ordinary and special moments in the lives of people around the world.
As a global leader with a strong heritage and a vision to move the world forward, we offer a safe, stable environment where your career can make a real difference. Whether we help deliver life-saving medicines, develop sustainable transportation solutions or support our local communities, your career will contribute to more than you can imagine.
We kindly advise that placement agencies refrain from submitting unsolicited profiles. Any submissions of candidates without prior signed agreement will be considered our property and no fees will be paid.
EEO Statement
Kuehne Nagel is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (“EEO”) and to compliance with all federal, state, and local laws that prohibit workplace discrimination and unlawful retaliation.
Kuehne Nagel strictly prohibits all discrimination on the basis of race, ancestry, color, age, national origin, ethnicity, religious creed or belief, physical or mental disability, marital or familial status, legally protected medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical condition), gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sexual orientation, citizenship status, protected activity (such as opposition to or reporting of prohibited discrimination or harassment.
Kuehne Nagel will also make reasonable accommodations for disabled applicants and employees, including accommodations for pregnancy and childbirth, and for the sincerely held religious beliefs of applicants and employees depending upon individual circumstances unless such accommodation would create an undue hardship on Kuehne Nagel.