Solution Design Manager - Los Angeles, CA / Houston, TX

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager

Company: CEVA Logistics

Location: Los Angeles, CA / Houston, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - Solution Design & Engineering

Date Posted: March 27, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive operational efficiency and cost optimization through expert logistics and transportation engineering analysis.

• Develop and present innovative solutions and proposals to internal stakeholders and external customers.

• Manage project milestones, identify risks, and ensure seamless execution of logistics projects.

• Implement and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to enhance operational workflows and compliance.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate safety, quality, and environmental considerations into all operational designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry-level Solution Design Manager, focusing on foundational logistics engineering principles and data analysis to support larger project teams. The "less than one year related experience" requirement in the original posting, combined with the "Solution Design Manager" title, indicates an accelerated development path or a focus on specific, well-defined tasks within a broader solution design framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collect, meticulously review, and analyze complex logistics and operational system data to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement, leveraging fundamental professional logistics and transportation engineering principles.

• Propose, design, and recommend viable solutions or modifications to existing and proposed system operations, ensuring optimal efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with business objectives, particularly for smaller scope or complexity projects.

• Assist in the development of comprehensive cost models, clearly defining assumptions and potential risks associated with logistics projects, with the expectation to perform these tasks independently for controlled projects once fully trained.

• Support the creation of project proposals, improvement plans, and future-state presentations for both internal management and external clients, providing essential data-driven insights and developing necessary reports.

• Actively participate in project execution by identifying and tracking key milestones, facilitating clear communication with all stakeholders, proactively addressing and removing obstacles, and ensuring the availability of necessary resources.

• Develop or contribute to the development of standardized operating procedures (SOPs), detailed work instructions, and related operational documentation, ensuring clarity and consistency.

• Conduct work, time, and efficiency studies, engaging with supervisors and employees, and consulting with customers to gain a thorough understanding of current operational processes and identify potential enhancements.

• Ensure all proposed processes and operational designs are compliant with applicable laws, rules, and regulations, seeking expert advice and interpretation when necessary to maintain adherence.

• Support the integration of safety, quality, environmental, and other relevant compliance needs into operational designs and project plans as requested or required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to data analysis and solution development, with significant emphasis on supporting senior team members and learning through practical application. The inclusion of "assist with" and "may independently perform once fully trained" indicates a structured development path within the solution design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Less than one year of direct experience in logistics engineering, operations analysis, or a related field.

Required Skills:

• Logistics & Transportation Engineering Principles: Solid understanding of fundamental concepts in industrial or mechanical engineering as applied to logistics and transportation systems.

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Ability to collect, process, and analyze operational data to derive meaningful insights and identify trends.

• Cost Modeling & Financial Acumen: Capability to assist in developing cost models, understanding financial assumptions, and assessing project-related financial risks.

• Project Support & Management: Familiarity with project lifecycle phases, assisting in milestone tracking, stakeholder communication, and resource coordination.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Understanding of techniques for conducting work, time, and efficiency studies to identify operational enhancements.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Development: Ability to contribute to the creation and documentation of clear, concise, and effective SOPs and work instructions.

• Regulatory Compliance Awareness: Basic understanding of applicable laws, rules, and regulations relevant to logistics and transportation operations.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Analytics & Reporting: Proficiency in developing analytics, reports, and communications for engineering and operational design contexts.

• System & Database Familiarity: Awareness of common systems and databases used in engineering management and logistics operations.

• Customer & Stakeholder Engagement: Experience or aptitude for communicating project information and operational concerns to diverse audiences, including customers.

• Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Demonstrated ability to identify potential operational or analytical concerns and propose solutions.

• Optimization Techniques: Familiarity with methods for driving efficiency and operational effectiveness in complex environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong academic foundation in engineering, coupled with a demonstrated capacity for analytical thinking and a foundational understanding of operational processes. The "less than one year" experience requirement is a key indicator that the company is looking for high-potential candidates who can be trained and developed within their solution design framework.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs): Examples of documented current and future-state process flows for logistics or supply chain operations, showcasing analytical and design capabilities.

• Data Analysis Case Studies: Demonstrations of how data was collected, analyzed, and used to drive specific operational recommendations or improvements, highlighting quantitative impact.

• Cost Model Examples: Illustrative examples of cost modeling approaches used for logistics projects, including assumptions, variables, and potential outcomes.

• SOP/Work Instruction Samples: Well-structured examples of standard operating procedures or work instructions developed for operational tasks, demonstrating clarity and comprehensiveness.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document operational processes, including workflow design, optimization phases, and implementation steps.

• Experience or understanding of creating user-friendly work instructions that guide operational execution effectively.

• Familiarity with tracking and reporting on process performance metrics to measure efficiency gains and identify areas for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for an entry-level role, candidates are strongly advised to prepare examples of relevant academic projects or any prior work experience that demonstrates their ability to analyze processes, design solutions, and document operational procedures. Focus on clarity, data-driven insights, and measurable outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $124,000 - $150,000 per year.

Bonus Opportunity:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness:

  • Multiple health insurance plan options.
  • Prescription drug coverage.
  • Dental and vision coverage.
  • Company contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support.
  • Pet insurance options.

• Financial Security & Protection:

  • 401(k) retirement plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial planning.
  • Company-paid life insurance.
  • Company-paid accident insurance.
  • Company-paid short-term disability coverage.
  • Company-paid long-term disability coverage.
  • Voluntary benefits including additional life insurance, AD&D coverage, and buy-up disability options.
  • Critical illness insurance.
  • Identity theft protection.
  • Legal plan services.

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition reimbursement program to support continuous learning and career advancement.

• Work-Life Balance:

  • Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) programs.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, standard business hours, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is at the higher end for entry-level roles, reflecting the specialized nature of Solution Design and the logistics industry. The extensive benefits package, including tuition reimbursement and robust financial protection, signifies a strong employer commitment to employee well-being and development, particularly attractive for candidates early in their careers.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management (3PL). CEVA Logistics is a prominent player in connecting people, products, and providers worldwide, operating in 170+ countries.

Company Size: Over 110,000 employees globally, operating from more than 1,500 sites. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources and a broad operational footprint.

Founded: CEVA Logistics has a history rooted in the evolution of global shipping and logistics, with its current form emerging from mergers and acquisitions, positioning it as a leader with deep industry experience.

Team Structure:

• The Solution Design team likely operates within a larger Operations or Engineering department, collaborating closely with Sales, Operations Management, and IT.

• Reporting structure typically involves a Solution Design Manager reporting to a Director or VP of Operations/Engineering, with potential for direct mentorship from senior engineers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on collecting and analyzing data to inform design choices and validate proposed solutions.

• Customer-Centric Solutioning: Focus on understanding customer needs and designing tailored logistics solutions that deliver value.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages identifying and implementing process enhancements for increased efficiency and effectiveness.

• Project Management Frameworks: Utilization of project management principles to ensure timely and successful delivery of solutions.

Company Website: https://www.cevalogistics.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA Logistics' global presence and scale mean that operations professionals here can expect exposure to diverse supply chain challenges and opportunities to work on solutions impacting international markets. The culture emphasizes growth, innovation, and teamwork, aligning with the "Dare to Grow" motto.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the Solution Design and Engineering function. It serves as a foundational step for individuals aiming to build a career in logistics engineering, operations management, or broader supply chain strategy. The scope involves supporting more complex projects and developing core competencies in data analysis, process mapping, and solution proposal development.

Reporting Structure: The Solution Design Manager will likely report to a senior member of the Solution Design team, such as a Senior Solution Designer, Lead Engineer, or Director of Solution Design. This structure provides direct mentorship and oversight, crucial for developing the necessary skills and understanding of CEVA's operational frameworks.

Operations Impact: While this role is entry-level, its impact is significant. By contributing to the design of efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions, the Solution Design Manager directly influences:

• Customer satisfaction: Through optimized supply chain performance.

• Operational costs: By identifying savings opportunities and efficiencies.

• Revenue generation: By supporting sales with compelling and viable solutions for new business.

• Competitive advantage: By enabling CEVA to offer superior logistics services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific areas of logistics engineering (e.g., warehouse design, transportation optimization, network modeling).

• Project Management: Transition into dedicated project management roles within logistics or operations.

• Leadership: Progress through the ranks of Solution Design, potentially leading teams and managing larger, more complex projects.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Leverage solution design experience for roles in operations management, business analysis, or strategic planning within CEVA Logistics.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue certifications such as APICS (CPIM, CSCP) or Lean Six Sigma to enhance professional credentials.

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA Logistics explicitly promotes career growth through its "Dare to Grow" initiative and "About Tomorrow" section, emphasizing internal mobility and diverse career paths. This entry-level role is positioned as a stepping stone, with clear avenues for skill development and advancement within the organization's extensive global network.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, requiring the Solution Design Manager to be present at a CEVA Logistics office location in either Los Angeles, CA, or Houston, TX. The specific location will be determined by the hiring team and business needs.

Office Location(s):

• Los Angeles, CA

• Houston, TX

These are major metropolitan hubs with significant logistics and transportation infrastructure, offering a dynamic work environment and access to a wide range of professional opportunities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a workplace designed for teamwork, with shared office spaces, meeting rooms, and collaborative zones to facilitate interaction with colleagues and cross-functional teams.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, including computers, communication tools, and potentially specialized logistics and engineering software, depending on team resources.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage directly with other solution designers, engineers, operations managers, and sales professionals, fostering knowledge sharing and a collective approach to problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily a standard 40-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday, during regular business hours.

• Flexibility may be offered, but the role's nature often requires availability to respond to project needs, which can sometimes extend beyond standard hours, especially when supporting sales proposals or critical project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a preference for in-person collaboration, mentorship, and direct engagement with operational realities. The choice between Los Angeles and Houston offers candidates geographical flexibility within major logistics hubs.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume by HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and experience alignment.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of logistics engineering principles. Expect questions related to your experience with data analysis, process mapping, and your approach to identifying operational improvements.

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: You may be given a case study or a problem-solving exercise related to logistics operations. This could involve analyzing a dataset, proposing a solution to an operational challenge, or developing a cost model. The focus will be on your analytical process, critical thinking, and ability to articulate solutions clearly.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with potential team members or key stakeholders from related departments (e.g., Sales, Operations) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final discussion with a senior leader to confirm fit and discuss career trajectory.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select academic projects, internships, or any prior work that best showcases your analytical, problem-solving, and design capabilities in a logistics or engineering context.

• Focus on Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, the process you followed (data collection, analysis, design), the solutions you proposed, and any quantifiable results or potential impact. Use process flow diagrams, charts, and key metrics to illustrate your work.

• Demonstrate Analytical Rigor: Highlight your approach to data analysis, your understanding of key logistics metrics, and how you used data to support your recommendations.

• Showcase Communication Skills: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to understand, and professionally presented. Be prepared to walk through your projects verbally, explaining your thought process and rationale.

• Tailor to CEVA: If possible, research CEVA's services and operational challenges to tailor your presentation to demonstrate how your skills align with their business needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Brush Up on Core Concepts: Review fundamental principles of industrial engineering, logistics, supply chain management, data analysis, and basic cost accounting.

• Practice Problem-Solving: Work through common logistics scenarios, such as optimizing warehouse layouts, improving delivery routes, or analyzing operational bottlenecks.

• Develop Presentation Skills: Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain your methodology and justify your recommendations.

• Understand CEVA's Business: Research CEVA Logistics' services, global reach, and market position to demonstrate your interest and understanding of their operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the "portfolio" may consist more heavily of academic projects. The emphasis will be on demonstrating potential and foundational understanding rather than extensive professional experience. The interview process is designed to assess analytical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn and grow within the organization.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Data Analysis Software: While not explicitly named, proficiency with tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables, VLOOKUPs), and potentially statistical software like R or Python for more complex analysis, is highly beneficial.

• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint or similar for developing proposals and presenting findings to stakeholders.

• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello) for tracking tasks and milestones, though direct use may be secondary at this level.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Exposure to BI platforms like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for data visualization and dashboard creation would be advantageous.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports summarizing data analysis and recommendations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Awareness of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Salesforce) used by sales teams to understand client interactions and project origins.

• Logistics & Supply Chain Software: Familiarity with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) is a plus, providing context for operational data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes foundational engineering principles and data analysis. While specific advanced software isn't mandated, a strong command of Excel for data manipulation and analysis is critical. Exposure to BI tools and project management software will be viewed favorably, indicating a proactive approach to learning relevant technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable logistics solutions that meet and exceed customer expectations.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging creative problem-solving and a proactive approach to identifying and implementing process enhancements for greater efficiency and effectiveness.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing a unified approach where team members support each other, share knowledge, and work together to achieve collective goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards in all business dealings and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

• Customer Focus: Placing the customer at the center of all operations, striving to understand their needs and deliver tailored, value-driven solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with various departments, including sales, operations, IT, and finance, to ensure cohesive project development and execution.

• Open Communication: Fostering an environment where ideas, feedback, and concerns can be shared openly and constructively among team members and stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise to elevate the team's collective capabilities.

• Data-Driven Dialogue: Engaging in discussions that are informed by data and analytical insights, promoting objective decision-making and effective problem resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA Logistics' stated values of "Dare to Grow," customer focus, and teamwork are central to its culture. Operations professionals are expected to be adaptable, collaborative, and driven by a desire for continuous improvement and professional development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Data Sets: Effectively collecting, cleaning, and analyzing diverse and potentially large volumes of logistics data from various sources.

• Balancing Cost and Service: Designing solutions that are both cost-effective for CEVA and meet the high service level expectations of customers.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring buy-in and collaboration from different departments with potentially competing priorities.

• Adapting to Evolving Logistics Landscape: Keeping pace with technological advancements, regulatory changes, and market dynamics within the global supply chain.

• Translating Technical Concepts: Effectively communicating complex engineering solutions and data insights to non-technical stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to CEVA's internal training programs and potential for external certifications in areas like Lean Six Sigma, project management, and advanced logistics analytics.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced Solution Designers and Operations leaders to accelerate professional growth and skill development.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Opportunity to work on a wide range of logistics challenges across different industries and geographies, broadening expertise.

• Career Pathing: Clear pathways for advancement within Solution Design or into other operational leadership roles within the extensive CEVA global network.

• Industry Engagement: Potential for participation in industry conferences or webinars to stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices in logistics and supply chain management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The entry-level nature of the role presents a significant growth opportunity. The challenges are framed as learning experiences, with an emphasis on developing problem-solving skills and adaptability in a dynamic industry. CEVA's commitment to employee development is a key aspect of this role's appeal.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex operational problem you encountered (in an academic project or internship) and how you approached analyzing it. What was your proposed solution?"

  • Preparation: Focus on structuring your answer using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Emphasize your analytical process, data utilization, and reasoning behind your proposed solution. Quantify results or potential impact where possible.

• "How would you go about developing a cost model for a new logistics service offering, considering potential risks and assumptions?"

  • Preparation: Outline the key components of a cost model (e.g., fixed costs, variable costs, labor, transportation, overhead). Discuss how you would gather data for these components and identify potential risks (e.g., fuel price fluctuations, driver availability).

• "Imagine you need to present a new operational process design to a sales team. How would you tailor your communication to ensure they understand its value and can effectively present it to clients?"

  • Preparation: Focus on translating technical details into business benefits. Highlight how the solution solves customer pain points, improves efficiency, and potentially increases revenue or reduces costs for the client.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CEVA Logistics and the role of a Solution Design Manager in our organization?"

  • Preparation: Research CEVA's mission, values, global presence, and recent achievements. Connect your career aspirations and skills to the company's objectives and the specific requirements of the role. Mention your interest in their "Dare to Grow" philosophy.

• "How do you approach collaborating with different teams (e.g., sales, operations) when working on a project?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your understanding of cross-functional collaboration and your ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Provide examples of how you've worked with different groups to achieve a common goal.

• "How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in logistics and supply chain management?"

  • Preparation: Mention resources like industry publications, professional organizations (e.g., APICS), online courses, webinars, or following thought leaders in the field.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with the 'Why': Clearly articulate the problem or opportunity each project addressed.

• Show Your Process: Walk through your methodology step-by-step, emphasizing data analysis, engineering principles applied, and decision-making rationale.

• Highlight Key Metrics: Present quantifiable results or projected benefits. Use charts, graphs, and diagrams effectively to illustrate data and concepts.

• Explain Your Role: Be clear about your specific contributions, especially if it was a team project.

• Connect to CEVA: Briefly explain how the skills and methodologies demonstrated in your portfolio are relevant to the Solution Design Manager role at CEVA Logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature, interviewers will assess your foundational knowledge, problem-solving aptitude, and potential for growth. Be prepared to articulate your thought process clearly, demonstrate analytical skills, and show enthusiasm for learning and contributing to CEVA's success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the CEVA Logistics careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight relevant academic achievements, coursework in industrial/mechanical engineering, any internship experience, and specific skills like data analysis, process mapping, and problem-solving. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio (Optional but Recommended): Assemble examples of academic projects, case studies, or relevant work demonstrating your analytical and design capabilities. Focus on clear documentation, process flows, and any quantifiable outcomes or insights.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions, especially those related to problem-solving, data analysis, and your understanding of logistics operations, using the STAR method for behavioral questions.

• Research CEVA Logistics: Understand the company's global operations, services, values, and recent news to demonstrate your genuine interest and strategic alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.