Supply Chain Process Improvement Specialist

Join KEYENCE as a Supply Chain Process Improvement Specialist

Location: Itasca, IL (Distribution Center)

Total Compensation (Base + Bonus): $81,281

As a Supply Chain Process Improvement Specialist, you will serve as the analytical and continuous improvement lead for KEYENCE Distribution Center operations. This role focuses on performance analysis, root-cause problem solving, and process design-not warehouse supervision. You'll partner with internal teams and 3PL providers to evaluate how work is performed, identify gaps, and drive measurable improvements in cost, service, quality, and reliability.

• Analyze DC performance using KPIs (service, productivity, inventory, cycle time, exceptions)
• Identify trends, bottlenecks, and root causes across inbound, outbound, returns, and inventory movement
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, PDCA) and document current/future-state processes
• Drive 3PL accountability through KPI tracking and operational reviews
• Support WMS/WCS, process, and equipment issue resolution; manage corrective actions and documentation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (Supply Chain, Operations, Business Analytics, or related field preferred)
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work in both office and warehouse environments
• Willingness to work occasional overtime or weekends (3-4 times per year)
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs (rarely without assistance)
• Steel-toe shoes required on warehouse floor

Preferred Skills

• 0-3 years in supply chain, logistics, or operations
• Exposure to continuous improvement methods (Lean, PDCA, Kaizen, Six Sigma)
• Experience analyzing KPIs and driving process improvements
• Familiarity with 3PL environments and DC systems (WMS/WCS)
• Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, analysis) and process mapping tools (Visio preferred)
• Working knowledge of safety, OSHA, or HAZMAT standards

What We Offer

• Base Salary: $64,800
• Bonus Target: $16,481 annually (performance-based), paid quarterly
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401K match, ~4 weeks PTO in first full year
• Career Growth: Promote-from-within culture with base and bonus increases

Why KEYENCE?

• Recognized by Forbes as one of the World's Most Innovative Companies
• A global leader in factory automation and quality assurance solutions
• Operating profit of over 40% for 25 consecutive years
• A culture that invests in your success from day one

KEYENCE is an at-will, Equal Opportunity Employer.