Lead Network Modeler

Job Description: The Lead Network Modeler will lead the development and application of network optimization models using commercial network modeling software to support strategic supply chain decisions. This is a hands-on role for an experienced network modeler with extensive experience building large, complex models and applying them to network design, greenfield analysis, and strategic network studies. The role combines deep modeling expertise with strong business acumen: understanding the decision to be made, determining the right level of model complexity, working through imperfect data, and translating results into actionable recommendations. The Lead Network Modeler will work directly with business leaders and subject matter experts, help establish modeling best practices and priorities, and help build the organization's network modeling capability. You'll be DISRUPTIVE through these duties and responsibilities: Build large, complex network optimization models using commercial network modeling software for network design, greenfield analysis, network optimization, distribution footprint, capacity, and other strategic studies. Translate business questions into modeling approaches that solve the actual business problem and support the decision - not simply the question as initially framed. Partner directly with key stakeholders and subject matter experts to understand objectives, requirements, constraints, tradeoffs, and decision criteria. Identify required stakeholders and data sources; gather, validate, and improve data; identify gaps; and work with business and technical partners to close them. Use sound judgment with imperfect data, distinguishing critical inputs from areas where reasonable assumptions or approximations are appropriate. Balance speed and precision - develop quick, directionally accurate models when appropriate while refining models when greater precision is required. Clearly communicate assumptions, limitations, methodology, results, and tradeoffs, and present recommendations to business stakeholders. Model complex supply chain economics and tradeoffs, including transportation, facility, labor, inventory, service, tax/duty, capacity, FTL/LTL, and shipment consolidation considerations. Challenge assumptions when appropriate and ensure models reflect the realities and economics of the business. Establish modeling best practices and help set priorities, coach others, and build broader network modeling capability. The TOOLS you'll bring with you: Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Supply Chain, Analytics, or a related quantitative field required; Master's degree preferred. Equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience may be considered. Extensive hands-on experience using commercial network optimization/network design software to build large, complex supply chain models. Proven experience with platforms such as Coupa Supply Chain Guru, Cosmic Frog, or a comparable enterprise network optimization software. Experience independently building and executing complex network models - not simply consuming or supporting models built by others. Demonstrated experience with greenfield analysis, network design studies, and strategic network optimization. Strong supply chain network design knowledge and understanding of cost, service, capacity, inventory, transportation, and operational tradeoffs. Experience taking a business problem from definition through data gathering, model development, scenario analysis, interpretation, and recommendation. Strong business acumen and demonstrated ability to work directly with senior stakeholders and subject matter experts. Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and presentation skills, including the ability to explain assumptions and tradeoffs to non-technical audiences. Ability to work independently in an ambiguous environment, prioritize competing needs, and drive work through completion. Passion for solving complex problems and using analytics to create meaningful business impact. Other TOOLS we prefer you to have: Experience modeling transportation costs and flows, including FTL, LTL, shipment consolidation, and/or multi-modal transportation. Experience incorporating labor, occupancy, handling, inventory, duties/tariffs, taxes, or other location-dependent costs into network models. Experience with large-scale supply chain datasets and data preparation/validation. Experience with SQL, Python, Databricks, or similar analytical technologies. Experience establishing reusable modeling frameworks or best practices and coaching other modelers. We provide these great perks and benefits: Robust health, dental and vision insurance plans Generous 401 (K) savings plan Education assistance On-site wellness, fitness center, food, and coffee service. And many more, check out our benefits site HERE. Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.