Continuous Improvement Specialist - Warehousing - Article
Richmond, VA
About the Job
Description
Hi there, we’re Article. Since 2013, we've been creating remarkably better furniture experiences one sofa at a time. As the Continuous Improvement Specialist - Warehousing, you’ll be responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing operational improvements across our warehousing processes.
We offer a lot of autonomy, grounded by the rule that accountability and authority to make decisions need to match. As a result, this is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact without being overly constrained by rigid systems. While our current tools and systems are evolving, this role offers an exciting opportunity to think creatively, be resourceful, and take a hands-on approach to overcome challenges and drive impactful results.
You'll need to engage with team members on the ground, building trust and strong working relationships. We’re looking for a collaborative, approachable professional who communicates well with diverse teams and avoids a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
If you’re energized by challenges like these and enjoy rolling up your sleeves to drive change, this could be a great fit.
We are open to this role being located near our facilities in either:
- Jacksonville, Florida - 10543 Canada Dr, Jacksonville, FL
- Richmond, Virginia - 1635 Ashton Park Dr, Colonial Heights, VA
Travel Required: US and Canada as requested - Max 30%
This role is on-site 5 days a week, including required visits to our other operational locations with one week's notice.
Why We Need You:
You will analyze current operations, identify inefficiencies, and leverage principles of continuous improvement methodologies to drive enhancements in productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction within the warehousing function, for our four fulfillment centers located across North America.
Given our current reliance on manual processes, proficiency in Google Sheets and Excel is essential to develop interim solutions as we transition to advanced technologies.
You must be familiar with the varying processes of End-to-End transportation in North America, comfortable with navigating new technology, and come with a holistic approach.
Why Article?
As a Particle (people of Article), you will have a high level of autonomy to solve challenging, meaningful problems the best way you can. That means you’re trusted to explore solutions you believe will work best (you’re the expert, after all). You’ll do all this while growing your skills within a company that is redefining the furniture industry.
What You’ll Do:
Continuous Improvement Strategy & Process Optimization
- Conduct thorough analyses of current warehousing processes to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
- Partner with the Training & Tooling Manager to develop and reinforce standardization across systems and processes.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements and streamline warehouse operations, ensuring completed on time, and within budget
- Data Management: Utilize Google Sheets and Excel to create and maintain tools that support daily operations, data tracking, and reporting.
- Inventory Management: Oversee and refine inventory control systems to ensure accuracy, minimize discrepancies, and optimize stock levels.
- Coach and mentor operational leaders to cultivate a continuous improvement mindset, implement lean strategies, champion best practice processes, and ensure the effective rollout, standardization, and validation of optimization initiatives across our warehouses.
Collaboration and Best Practices
- Cross-Facility Consistency: While based in Richmond, ensure that continuous improvement initiatives are standardized and effectively applied across our other three facilities.
- Collaborate with the on-site quality team in Richmond to manage quarantined products and repairs, ensuring effective communication and seamless coordination throughout the process.
- Collaborate with other departments, such as procurement, inventory management, and customer service, to ensure improvements are aligned across the organization. Share best practices and learnings to promote a holistic approach to continuous improvement.
- Work closely with our in-house technology team when required to support and optimize systems, including contributing to the transition to new warehouse technologies in the future.
Data Analysis and Reporting
- Analyze data to identify areas for improvement in warehouse processes, collaborating with operational teams to uncover root causes and define actionable solutions using data-driven insights.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and Key Activity indications (KAIs) to track the effectiveness of improvement initiatives. Report on progress and outcomes to senior management, providing insights and recommendations for further enhancements.
- Supports accurate reporting of leading and lagging metrics that gauge current status, inform on long-term progress, and allow for industry comparisons.
Other - Operational Support
- Stepping into various operational roles as needed within an Article warehouse environment.
- Adapting to different shifts or schedules to cover for absent team members.
- Ensuring continuity of service and operational efficiency during staff shortages.
- Collaborating with management and team members to quickly adapt to operational needs.
Who You Are:
- 5+ of experience in warehousing, with a proven track record in continuous improvement.
- Demonstrated success in implementing process improvements and lean initiatives.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop actionable recommendations.
- Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification.
- Excellent project management experience, including leading cross-functional teams.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate teams and drive change.
- Knowledge of transport and logistics systems (WMS, TMS).
- Proven ability to guide teams through change and ensure smooth transitions to new systems or practices.
- Background in Supply Chain, Logistics, Transport, or Manufacturing.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.
- Proven leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and influence others.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Proficiency with G-suite/Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
- Legally able to work in the U.S.
- Completion of criminal background check
Perks & Benefits:
- Benefits-eligible (First day of employment)
- Medical, Dental, & Vision coverage
- Life Insurance
- Disability insurance
- Vacation, Holidays & Sick/Wellness Days
- 48 hours Sick/wellness (6 days, accrued annually)
- 8 paid holidays + 1 Inclusion & Diversity day
- 120 hours (3 weeks) paid vacation (accrued annually)
- Other Benefits/Perks
- 4% 401K matched contribution
- Paid maternity and parental leave
- 45% Employee discount + 15 % family & friends discount
- Benefits-eligible (First day of employment)
The target salary for this role is $80,000 to $95,000. The actual base pay can increase beyond this range, and will be based on various factors, including transferable skills, training and certifications, work experience, business needs and market demands.
Source : Article