R&D Simulation & Line Balancing Engineer

Company Description

Cartesian Kinetics Inc. is dedicated to transforming how brands and retailers manage online fulfillment, specifically from Micro Fulfillment Centers (MFCs). We develop robotic solutions optimized for smaller spaces like back of stores and urban locations where traditional systems often fall short. Our innovative Carte+ system supports seamless omni-channel fulfillment, ensuring efficient inventory management across various channels. By addressing the growing demand for rapid fulfillment, we aim to drive the next phase of retail growth with our cutting-edge solutions.

Role Description

• This is a full-time hybrid role for an R&D Simulation & Line Balancing Engineer based in Bengaluru, with some work-from-home flexibility.

Responsibilities:

As a key member of our R&D team, you will engage in significant cross-functional collaboration, with a primary focus on line balancing and simulation:

• Developing and implementing simulation models:

  Creating and refining simulation models of assembly lines using discrete event simulation in Python to accurately represent the production process.

• Analyzing and optimizing line balancing:

  Utilizing simulation results to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement in the line balancing process.

• Balancing workloads:

  Adjusting task assignments, workstation configurations, and resource allocation within simulations to achieve balanced workloads across all workstations, minimizing idle time and maximizing throughput.

• Evaluating various scenarios:

  Testing and evaluating different line balancing strategies and configurations to determine optimal setups for production lines.
• Maintaining and enhancing existing simulation tools to meet evolving business needs.
• Providing critical support for pre-sales and solutioning through custom data analysis, Proof of Concept (POC) development, and comprehensive simulations.
• Conducting exploratory work to thoroughly understand and identify the limitations of our robotics platform.
• Contributing to the design of innovative algorithms for robotic pathfinding and efficient material movement within warehouse environments.
• Validating simulation results: Comparing simulation results with real-world data and making necessary adjustments to ensure model accuracy and reliability.
• Collaborating with engineers and production personnel: Working closely with engineers, production managers, and other stakeholders to implement and validate simulation-driven improvements.
• Staying abreast of cutting-edge simulation techniques and line balancing best practices, continuously applying new methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of relevant professional experience.
• Hands-on experience with Python is required, with additional exposure to Matlab being a plus.
• Academic background in Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics.
• Background in manufacturing processes, production planning, or industrial engineering is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated exposure to both hardware and software, with robotics work being a significant advantage.
• Proven ability to think quickly, be proactive, and effectively work with abstract requirements.
• Strong understanding of line balancing principles, including concepts like takt time, cycle time, workstation capacity, and bottleneck identification.
• Proficiency in developing and analyzing complex warehouse processes using discrete event simulation techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify root causes of inefficiencies and develop effective solutions from simulation results.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, enabling clear articulation of technical information and effective teamwork across diverse groups.