Warehouse Optimization Analyst

About our family of companies:

We are on a mission to bring learning to life ! At our family of companies, Learning Resources®, Educational Insights, and hand2mind, we create a unique range of toys, educational products and supplemental curriculum trusted by teachers and loved by families alike. Voted among the Chicago Tribune's Top Workplaces for the last four consecutive years, we are a 350-person strong, family-owned organization dedicated to helping kids succeed in school and develop a love of learning. In addition to high-quality, hands-on products like VersaTiles® and Cuisenaire® Rods, we make award-winning toys, including top sellers such as the Pretend & Play® Cash Register, the Farmer's Market Color Sorting Set and Toy of the Year winner Botley® the Coding Robot as well as Educational Insights top sellers Kanoodle®, GeoSafari® Jr. series, and Playfoam™. We pride ourselves on being committed to our employee's personal and professional development, a thriving culture, and a diverse, creative atmosphere. Along with our culture and competitive benefits package, we offer a variety of opportunities for training and development. We are looking for professionals who are truly just kids at heart! We hope you'll come join our award-winning team today!

Team & Position Description:


We are currently seeking a D365 Warehouse Optimization Analyst to join our Warehouse Operations Team! This position offers the opportunity to shape warehouse operations by implementing impactful system driven process improvements and innovative technology solutions through D365 advanced warehousing and other related technologies. This role will collaborate closely with warehouse leadership, the warehouse analyst team, IT technical resources, and sales operations to produce technology focused solutions in the Operations group. The ideal candidate for this role will be self driven, proficient in D365 WMS configurations, and able to operate independently in a fast-paced distribution environment.

Key Performance Objectives:

1. Configure and Optimize D365 F&O and Related Software for Warehouse Operations
   • Within the first 90 days, lead the configuration and optimization of existing Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (D365 F&O) WMS modules to support warehouse processes across our family of companies.
   • Within the first 6 months, achieve at least a 10% improvement in operational efficiency through tailored system settings, workflows, WCS system improvements, or automation for three distinct warehouse processes.
2. Own Warehouse Configuration Support
   • Within first 90 days, partner with IT, the operations analyst team, warehouse leadership, and third-party vendors to troubleshoot, escalate, and resolve all configuration related technology tickets.
3. Drive Successful Technology Integrations and UAT
   • Within the first 120 days, own the user acceptance testing process for D365 F&O advanced warehousing and integrated warehouse technologies (e.g., WCS software, etc). Ensure all system changes are fully tested, documented, and deployed with zero critical issues, resulting in seamless adoption by warehouse teams.
4. Deliver Training and Support for System Users
   • Within the first 9 months, develop and deliver targeted training modules for warehouse staff on D365 F&O and related technologies. Attain 90% proficiency among power users within one month of new system implementations.
5. Champion Continuous Improvement in Warehouse Technology
   • Within the first 12 months, lead at least two major warehouse technology improvement projects, documenting best practices and integrating learnings into the department's knowledge base.

Requirements/Ideal Attributes:

• In-depth, firsthand knowledge and experience with enterprise and desktop applications, including MS Dynamics 365 F&O, Supply Chain and Warehouse Management, WCS software, MS Excel, and MS Word.
• Warehouse technology experience.
• A college diploma or university degree in the field of computer science, or equivalent experience in information systems is required.
• Proven experience with troubleshooting principles, methodologies, and issue-resolution techniques.
• The ability to develop and interpret technical documentation.
• Strong project management skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills at all levels of the organization.
• Highly self-motivated and directed.
• Good analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Ability to present ideas in business-friendly and user-friendly language.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Experience working in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

We are a drug-free workplace and an EEO employer.

Please note : This role will be filled by our internal recruitment team, so no assistance is needed from any outside staffing agency at this time.

Compensation Range: $85,000 - $95,000 annual salary - Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: years of experience, skill set and location. Total compensation includes profit sharing bonus potential, 401k matching, and a variety of other benefits (details can be found here).


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