Director of Warehouse Automation

About YQN Logistics

YQN Logistics is a leading one-stop digital platform for international logistics services, providing comprehensive solutions across a wide range of logistics operations, including Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), air freight, rail transportation, trucking, customs clearance, warehousing, cargo insurance, bulk cargo services, and destination port services.

Leveraging internet technologies and digital innovation, YQN aims to enhance the visibility and efficiency of cross-border supply chains, delivering a seamless logistics experience comparable to express delivery. Guided by our mission, "Simple Shipping, Easy Freight," we have established strategic partnerships with leading global shipping carriers and logistics providers, including COSCO Shipping, Maersk, and Sinotrans.

Position Overview

As the Director of Warehouse Automation, you will oversee the end-to-end implementation, management, and optimization of warehouse automation projects across our warehouse network. You will lead internal teams and external vendors, manage the entire lifecycle of on-site automation equipment, and drive continuous improvements in equipment performance and construction processes to enhance operational efficiency, optimize productivity, and reduce costs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead internal teams and external vendors in planning and executing warehouse automation construction and implementation projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to high-quality standards.

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of on-site automation equipment, including installation, commissioning, operation, maintenance, and upgrades, to ensure stable, efficient, and safe equipment performance.

• Proactively identify project and equipment-related risks, lead technical troubleshooting and root cause analysis, and develop and implement corrective actions and improvement plans.

• Continuously optimize equipment operating processes and on-site construction practices, driving the ongoing development and improvement of automation solutions to increase operational efficiency and reduce costs.

• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, including warehouse operations teams, engineering teams, and external vendors, to ensure effective communication, project alignment, and successful execution.

Qualifications

• Professional Experience: 3–5 years of relevant experience in warehouse automation, industrial automation, or automation engineering, with demonstrated experience managing warehouse automation installation, construction, or implementation projects.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.

• Project Management: Proven ability to independently manage automation projects from planning and equipment selection through installation, commissioning, testing, and final handover. Experience coordinating project timelines, budgets, contractors, and equipment suppliers is highly preferred.

• Technical Expertise: Hands-on knowledge of warehouse automation systems and equipment, such as conveyor systems, automated sorting systems, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), and material handling equipment. Ability to understand equipment structures, operating principles, and technical specifications.

• Equipment Commissioning & Maintenance: Practical experience overseeing equipment installation, system integration, commissioning, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and performance optimization in warehouse or industrial environments.

• Networking & System Integration: Basic understanding of industrial networking, equipment communication protocols, network connectivity, and integration between automation equipment and warehouse management or control systems (WMS/WCS).

• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and troubleshooting capabilities, with the ability to identify equipment malfunctions, conduct root cause analysis, resolve technical issues, and implement preventive and corrective measures.

• Leadership & Vendor Management: Experience leading project teams, coordinating contractors, and managing external equipment suppliers or automation vendors to ensure projects are completed on schedule and meet technical and operational requirements.

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills in both English and Chinese are highly preferred, with the ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and external vendors. 

Job Type: Full-time, Onsite

Location: Fontana, CA / Port Reading, NJ

Compensation: $130k-$160k per year, plus bonus

Benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance, PTO, 401(k) Match