Factory Planning and Optimization Engineer - Schuler ConsultingPosted on February 11, 2026Full-TimeRequisition #: SCHUL002947LocationsGrand Rapids Corporate, 3965 44th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512, USAWestern Region, 10329 Regis Ct, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730, USANorth East Regional Office, 1050 Bethlehem Pike, Montgomeryville, PA 18936, USASouth East Region, 729 Gallimore Dairy Rd, High Point, NC 27265, USANorth Carolina Virtual, Virtual Office, North Carolina, USAMichigan Virtual, Michigan Virtual - No Local, Michigan, USAPA Virtual 2, Virtual Office, Pennsylvania, USAMississauga, Ontario, CAN, Mississauga, ON, CANDescriptionThe Senior Consultant provides expert guidance to clients on production processes, focusing on designing and optimizing manufacturing workflows in furniture fabrication. They develop tailored production and IT concepts, lead projects, and facilitate workshops to drive operational improvements. The role involves close collaboration with both client teams and internal stakeholders. Strong technical knowledge and a background in furniture production, project management skills, and international travel readiness are essential. They feel at home in a shopfloor environment and in the office. Essential Functions:Provide expert consulting services to clients in the wood and furniture industry.Analyze client needs and advise on production and manufacturing processes.Assume responsibility for customer projects, collaborating closely with both customer stakeholders and internal cross‑functional teams.Production Concept DevelopmentAnalyze and define customer requirements.Design and develop customized production concepts tailored to client requirements.Define production capacities and workflows to optimize output.Manufacturing OptimizationConduct potential analyses to uncover areas for operational enhancement and quantify impact.Identify and implement improvements in manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and quality.IT Solutions & ImplementationDevelop IT concepts integrating ERP, MES, and CAD/CAM systems to support production.Support digital transformation initiatives within client operations.Project & Workshop ManagementLead and manage consulting projects, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.Facilitate workshops and coordinate cross‑functional teams.QualificationsBackground in furniture manufacturing or wood related production.Degree in wood technology, industrial engineering, or equivalent experience.Strong knowledge of mass customization, variant configuration, and batch size 1 furniture production.Familiarity with ERP, MES, and CAD/CAM software functionalities.Technical and commercial acumen.Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.High interpersonal skills with teamwork and communication strengths.Minimum 3 years of hands‑on experience in factory planning and engineering or management.Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.Valid Driver's license.Skills and AbilitiesExceptional verbal and written communication skills for internal and external collaboration.Strong multitasking capabilities with excellent organizational skills.Advanced problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities to address complex and diverse project challenges.Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills related to production and manufacturing.Ability to develop and implement innovative production concepts.Effective project management and lead project teams and moderate workshop.Customer‑focused approach with consultative selling skills.Proficient in collaborating with diverse teams and stakeholders.Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).Office‑based with frequent client site visits in the USA, Canada, and internationally.Equal Opportunity EmployerThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.#J-18808-Ljbffr