Distribution Center Design Lead/Architect

What we're looking for

Spinnaker SCA, a Publicis Sapient company, is seeking a Distribution Center Design Lead/Architect to lead client-facing design and implementation efforts as a part of our Warehouse Operations & Automation practice. This role bridges the gap between warehouse operations and system functionality—guiding our LA-based client through complex WMS deployments that drive performance in retail, ecommerce, and wholesale environments.

We are seeking a hands-on Conceptual Design Lead who can own and drive the creation of the future state operating model for our client’s new distribution center. This role blends leadership and deep technical design, combining Industrial Engineering, Material Flow/Facility Design, Operations, and Automation experience to deliver a cohesive concept that defines capacity, flow, labor, and automation strategy. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable leading workshops, building models, mapping flows, structuring deliverables, and making executive level recommendations.

Required qualifications

Here’s what you need to bring to the table:

• 7+ years in Industrial Engineering, Material Flow Design, Automation Engineering, or Operations Design for distribution/fulfillment centers.
• Demonstrated ability to design DC flows from scratch and translate requirements into conceptual layouts and automation configurations.
• Experience working with or evaluating automation technologies such as AutoStore, Exotec, AMRs, conveyors, goods‑to‑person, or high‑density storage systems.
• Strong command of capacity modeling, process mapping, labor modeling, and storage/slotting logic.
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional workshops, synthesize inputs from multiple SMEs, and deliver polished executive-level design deliverables.
• A “builder” mindset — comfortable rolling up your sleeves, doing the analysis, and also driving the broader team toward alignment.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with WMS/IT, Operations, Strategy, and Real Estate partners during early design.

What you'll actually do

• Lead Phase 1 Conceptual Design, acting as the primary architect of the future‑state DC and the coordinator for all SMEs (Operations, IE, Strategy, Transportation, Automation, WMS/IT).
• Build the 5‑year demand/capacity model, including peak week/day/hour throughput, SKU cube/velocity analysis, and storage strategy.
• Design end‑to‑end material flows (inbound → putaway → storage → picking → packing → shipping → returns), aligning process engineering with automation options.
• Create the facility conceptual layout (zones, dock strategy, storage types, work areas) and define envelope requirements (clear height, bays, docks, space allowances).
• Evaluate automation strategies (AutoStore, Exotec, AMRs, traditional MHE), producing trade‑offs, sizing, and throughput scenarios.
• Partner with Operations SMEs to define service models, exception paths, staffing needs, and productivity assumptions.
• Work with Strategy & Transportation Analysts to align network role, transit expectations, and upstream/downstream constraints.
• Collaborate with WMS Architect & IT Integration Architect to define system capabilities, integration points, and functional requirements linked to flow design.
• Facilitate working sessions and drive the team toward a unified Phase 1 Concept Design Package including options, recommendations, risks, and CapEx/OpEx bands.
• Present conceptual alternatives and recommendations to senior leadership and support Stage Gate 1 approvals. 
  
  

Why this role matters

Phase 1 sets the foundation for the entire DC program, defining the operating model, automation direction, labor model, and facility envelope that flow into site selection, financial modeling, detailed design, TI, procurement, and go‑live.

We need a leader who can think strategically and produce high‑quality designs — someone who can be the center of gravity for the conceptual phase and ensure the right decisions are made early, with clarity and speed.

Additional info

Pay Range: $70,000-270,000 USD + Bonus

The range shown represents a grouping of relevant ranges currently in use at Spinnaker SCA. Actual range for this position may differ, depending on location and specific skillset required for the work itself.

As part of our dedication to an inclusive and diverse workforce, Spinnaker SCA, a company of Publicis Sapient is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity without regard for race, color, national origin, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at careers@spinnakersca.com or you may call us at +1 (213) 443-8308.

Who is Spinnaker SCA?

Spinnaker SCA, a Publicis Sapient company, is a supply chain consultancy purpose-built for today’s volatility and tomorrow’s opportunities. We design and deliver smarter supply chains using a hands-on blend of strategic thinking, digital systems know-how, and practical execution.

From network design and demand planning to warehouse automation and AI-powered analytics, we help companies design intelligently, implement seamlessly, and grow exponentially. If you’re ready to help rethink what supply chains can be—and have a little fun while doing it—we’d love to hear from you.

Ready to apply?

Just fill out this form to submit your application.