Project Engineer

Job Brief

The eCommerce Project Engineer is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing strategic automation, robotics, and material handling equipment (MHE) initiatives across the DHL eCommerce network.

At DHL, our people are our greatest asset! Everyone's contribution drives us to be the world's #1 logistics company.

Certified as a Great Place to Work, we're dedicated to fostering a positive, collaborative, and supportive environment for all. Our commitment and engagement with Our People ensure we continuously build a workplace we're all proud of. Plus, with competitive compensation and exceptional perks, we make sure your personal life shines just as brightly as your career.

SUMMARY:
The eCommerce Project Engineer is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing strategic automation, robotics, and material handling equipment (MHE) initiatives across the DHL eCommerce network. This role supports the implementation of automation technologies that improve operational efficiency, safety, throughput, quality, and scalability within existing and new distribution centers.

The Project Engineer manages multiple projects and workstreams related to parcel sorting systems, robotics, automation safety, computer vision, machine relocations, and emerging technologies. Working closely with Operations, Industrial Engineering, Network Design, IT, vendors, and external partners, this position supports projects from concept development through implementation, commissioning, and operational stabilization.

Based in a Distribution Center (DC), this role supports network-wide initiatives while independently managing assigned project scopes, schedules, budgets, documentation, and performance targets.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Automation, Robotics & Material Handling Systems
  • Manage and execute parcel sorter initiatives, including upgrades, retrofits, and new installations.
  • Manage machine moves, re-layouts, and equipment relocations across the DC network.
  • Support automation systems related to scanning, weighing, dimensioning, conveying, tilters, dumpers, and other MHE.
  • Support automation safety initiatives, including design reviews, documentation, compliance tracking, and field coordination.
• Project Management
  • Independently manage assigned project scopes and workstreams from planning through implementation.
  • Develop project schedules, milestones, resource plans, and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Coordinate activities among Operations, Engineering, IT, Procurement, vendors, and site leadership.
  • Monitor project progress and support delivery of projects on time, within budget, and aligned with operational requirements.
  • Escalate project risks, issues, and mitigation plans as appropriate
• Project Reporting & Business Case Support
  • Prepare and maintain project reporting, including status updates, timelines, risks, and issue logs.
  • Support Business Case Analysis (BCA) activities:
  • Data collection and validation
  • CapEx and benefit input
  • Payback and ROI support
  • Track project costs and support budget adherence for assigned initiatives.
• Technology, Innovation & Digital Enablement
  • Support computer vision and AI-related automation initiatives, including pilots and trials.
  • Assist in identifying, evaluating, and deploying new automation technologies in collaboration with Network Design and Engineering.
  • Support transition of new technologies from concept and design through pilot testing and operational deployment.
• Layouts, Documentation & Training
  • Develop and maintain CAD machine layouts (AutoCAD) for new and modified automation systems.
  • Support development of SOPs, work instructions, and technical documentation.
  • Support training, commissioning, and go-live activities at DC sites.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Identify and support continuous improvement opportunities related to throughput, safety, quality, and efficiency.
  • Support structured problem-solving initiatives using data and basic statistical tools.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree required. Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering or Mechanical Engineering is preferred.
• 4 years of work experience required, 5+ years preferred.
• Experience in warehouse, distribution, parcel, automation, robotics, or material handling environments preferred.
• Experience supporting automation design, implementation, or project execution is highly desirable.
• Experience with statistical analysis tools, control charts, Pareto analysis, or continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.

REQUIREMENTS/SKILLS:

• Ability to travel to remote sites as required (up to 35%).
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Microsoft Project, Visio.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to present project updates and recommendations to various organizational levels.
• Experience working with parcel sorting systems, automation equipment, or robotics solutions is preferred.
• Understanding of automation controls, MHE systems, and operational processes is a plus.
• Experience with change management principles is desirable.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and with external partners.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:

• Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; communicates changes effectively.
• Time management, organizational and multi-tasking skills necessary to work in a fast-paced environment, handling various tasks and changing priorities, while maintaining a high attention to detail and accuracy to achieve daily assignments and goals.
• Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; collects and researches data; designs workflows and procedures.
• Problem Solving - Identifies root causes, develops solutions, and resolves issues in a timely manner.
• Judgment - Exercises sound business judgment and supports recommendations with data and analysis.
• Presentation/Communication Skill - Speaks and writes clearly and persuasively and is comfortable presenting to large audiences.
• Interpersonal Skills - Easily develops positive relationships, fosters buy-in and works well independently.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to work different shifts, including nights.
• Ability to travel to remote sites as required (up to 35%).
• Frequent standing and walking.
• Ability to occasionally lift and move items weighing up to 50 lbs.

As a leading logistics company in one of the fastest growing industries, at DHL eCommerce, we offer our employees, and their dependents benefits and incentives to make them successful at work and home.

• Competitive Pay
• Bonus Programs
• Retirement Savings - 401k with company match
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Well-being programs
• FSA/HSA availability
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off including vacation and sick time
• Company Paid Holidays and Floating Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Discount Program
• Employee Assistance & Work Life Program
• Short Term and Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance

We are committed to equal opportunity and reject any forms of discrimination. The basis for employee selection at DHL Group is qualification, performance, skills and experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans/Disability