Sr. Solution Architect - Supply Chain Operations

Position Description

KPI is seeking an experienced, hands‑on Sr. Solution Architect to serve as the technical lead on complex, high‑risk automation programs in both the distribution and manufacturing sectors. The Sr. Solution Architect is entrusted to lead highly technical solutioning efforts for our distribution network clients within the Advanced Solution Design team.

The role is a front‑line architecture and execution role responsible for:

• De‑risking solution design
• Tightening requirements definition based on operational requirements
• Bridging design → automation → software → execution
• Preventing late‑stage surprises that impact schedule, margin, and customer confidence
• Core Responsibilities

· Own end‑to‑end solution architecture for complex, software‑heavy automation systems, serving as the technical authority from concept through execution. Utilize solution modelling skills to determine and validate optimal automation selection.

· Lead early requirements definition and risk identification, ensuring scope, assumptions, and constraints are clearly defined before projects advance. Ability to work with ambiguous data and requirements to develop solution alternatives.

· De‑risk solution designs by validating feasibility, performance, and integration across hardware, controls, and software platforms.

· Serve as the primary technical escalation point during execution, supporting project teams with issue resolution, trade studies, and corrective actions.

· Partner directly with software and technology vendors to validate capabilities, limitations, and testing strategies, including emulation and simulation. Serve as an automation expert within the broader department.

· Support commissioning and ramp‑up planning, ensuring system readiness, performance expectations, and operational handoff are clearly defined.

· Capture and institutionalize lessons learned, feeding improvements back into standards, templates, and repeatable solution patterns.

Requirements

• Minimum bachelor’s degree required in Engineering, Supply Chain, Computer Science, or Mathematics.
• Minimum of 10 years across progressive roles in warehouse design and automation.
• Proven track record in design of large, complex distribution fulfillment operations.
• Proven track record in managing client facing pre-sales engineering.
• Proven track record of learning, designing, and implementing good business processes and systems.
• Proven track record in leading continuous improvement initiatives resulting in sustained results and embedded behaviors.