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

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager

Company: CEVA Logistics (part of CMA CGM Group)

Location: Los Angeles, CA / Houston, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Management / Logistics Engineering

Date Posted: May 24, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focuses on the design and optimization of logistics and transportation operations, leveraging engineering principles to drive efficiency.

• Involves detailed data analysis and the development of actionable recommendations for system improvements and operational enhancements.

• Requires the creation of cost models, project proposals, and standard operating procedures to support business objectives.

• Plays a key role in project management, ensuring milestones are met, stakeholders are informed, and obstacles are removed within operational projects.

• Contributes to the continuous improvement culture by performing work, time, and efficiency studies to understand and refine operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Solution Design Manager, but the stated experience level (less than one year) and the emphasis on "assisting" and "learning" suggest it's an entry-level to junior position within solution design or logistics engineering. The "Manager" title might reflect the scope of projects rather than direct team management. The dual location offering (Los Angeles and Houston) indicates potential flexibility for candidates within those regions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collect, review, and analyze logistics and operational system data, applying professional logistics and transportation engineering principles.

• Recommend solutions or changes to current or proposed system operations to ensure efficient results, handling projects of varying scope and complexity.

• Assist in developing cost models, assumptions, and risk assessments for projects, with the potential to perform these tasks independently for smaller projects.

• Support the development of project proposals, improvement initiatives, and current/future state presentations for customers and management.

• Assist in identifying and delivering on project milestones, proactively communicating with stakeholders, removing obstacles, and ensuring resource availability for operational projects.

• Develop or recommend standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and related documentation for enhanced operational clarity and consistency.

• Conduct work, time, and efficiency studies, engaging with supervisors, employees, and customers to gain a comprehensive understanding of operations.

• Ensure processes and operations comply with applicable laws, rules, and regulations, seeking advice and interpretation as needed.

• Assist with related safety, quality, and environmental compliance as requested or required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on analytical and design tasks within logistics operations. The phrasing "assist with" and "recommend solutions" indicates a support and recommendation role, aligning with the junior experience level despite the "Manager" title. The emphasis on data collection, analysis, and process documentation is crucial for operations candidates to highlight.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Master's Degree in a related field is preferred.

• Professional certification in relevant engineering or logistics disciplines may be required for specific areas. Experience:

• Less than one year of related professional experience in logistics, supply chain, or industrial engineering.

• Demonstrated understanding of fundamental professional industrial or mechanical engineering principles and practices.

• Familiarity with applicable laws, rules, and regulations related to logistics and transportation operations. Required Skills:

• Strong analytical skills for collecting, reviewing, and interpreting logistics and operational system data.

• Proficiency in developing analytics, reports, and communications related to engineering and operational design.

• Knowledge of logistics and transportation engineering principles and practices.

• Ability to understand and apply applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

• Familiarity with methods for developing and analyzing cost and operational studies.

• Capability to identify and communicate potential operational or analytical concerns. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with common systems and databases used for engineering management and logistics operations.

• Awareness of project management methodologies and ability to manage project milestones.

• Familiarity with developing SOPs and work instructions.

• Experience in conducting work, time, and efficiency studies.

• Understanding of supply chain dynamics and 3PL operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is notably low for a "Manager" title, suggesting an "entry-level manager" or a "junior specialist" role focused on solution design. Candidates with internships or co-op experience in industrial engineering or logistics will be well-suited. The emphasis on fundamental principles and analytical capabilities is key.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of data analysis projects, showcasing the ability to interpret operational data and derive insights.

• Examples of process improvement initiatives, detailing the methodology used and the quantifiable impact achieved.

• Documentation of cost modeling or cost-benefit analysis for proposed solutions.

• Samples of reports or presentations developed for operational or project-related purposes.

• Evidence of understanding or developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) or workflow documentation. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document current-state operational processes, identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement.

• Experience in designing future-state processes that incorporate recommended solutions and best practices.

• Skills in creating clear, concise, and actionable work instructions and SOPs.

• Understanding of how to measure and report on the effectiveness of implemented processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the junior experience level, a formal "portfolio" might not be strictly required, but candidates should be prepared to discuss projects from their academic work, internships, or previous roles that demonstrate the skills outlined. Highlighting academic projects in industrial engineering or logistics-focused capstone projects would be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $124,000 - $150,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance plans.

• Prescription coverage.

• Dental insurance.

• Vision insurance.

• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program.

• Company-paid life insurance.

• Accident insurance.

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Tuition reimbursement program.

• Employee benefits platform offering discounts on gym memberships, retail, travel, car, and hospitality brands.

• Pet insurance. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, likely around 40 hours per week, typically aligned with business operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for an entry-level to junior role, especially in the logistics industry and for a Solution Design Manager title. The benefits package is robust, indicating a commitment to employee well-being and development, which is attractive for operations professionals. The dual location might imply some flexibility in where the 40 hours are based, but the role is specified as on-site.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Management (part of the broader CMA CGM Group, a global leader in shipping and logistics).

Company Size: CEVA Logistics is a Top 5 global 3PL, operating in 170+ countries with over 110,000 employees across 1,500 sites. This indicates a large, established, and global organization.

Founded: CEVA Logistics has a history dating back to the 19th century through various predecessor companies, with the current CEVA Logistics entity formed in 2007. CMA CGM acquired CEVA Logistics in 2019.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within a broader Operations, Engineering, or Solution Design department.

• It will involve collaboration with various internal teams, including sales, operations management, IT, and potentially customer service.

• Reporting structure is expected to be to a senior Solution Design Manager, Director of Operations, or similar leadership role within the logistics engineering function.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential for understanding customer needs and designing effective logistics solutions. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is a core component, emphasizing the collection and analysis of operational data.

• Focus on continuous improvement and process optimization to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Application of engineering principles to solve complex supply chain challenges.

• Collaborative approach to solution design, involving input from various stakeholders.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA Logistics, as part of CMA CGM, operates in a complex, global, and highly competitive industry. The company culture emphasizes growth, innovation, and a diverse workforce. For operations professionals, this means working within a structured but dynamic environment that values data-driven insights and continuous improvement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-level to junior professional within the "Solution Design Manager" title. It serves as a foundational role for individuals aspiring to specialize in logistics engineering and operational design.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role would report to a Senior Solution Design Manager, Operations Manager, or Director of Engineering/Operations, providing direct mentorship and oversight.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction by designing optimal logistics solutions. Successful design and implementation can lead to significant cost savings and improved service levels for clients, directly contributing to the company's revenue and competitive positioning.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific areas of logistics engineering, such as network design, transportation optimization, warehouse operations, or specific industry verticals.

• Advancement: Progress to Senior Solution Design Manager, Operations Manager, or lead roles in project management within operations.

• Skill Development: Gain extensive experience in data analysis, process mapping, cost modeling, and stakeholder management within a global logistics context.

• Cross-functional Moves: Potential to move into broader operations management, supply chain planning, or even sales support roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" title at an entry-level experience is a strategic career stepping stone. CEVA's emphasis on "Dare to Grow" and "About Tomorrow" suggests a commitment to internal development and providing clear advancement paths for motivated employees.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment. Given the nature of solution design, this environment is likely to be collaborative, with dedicated workspaces for analysis and team interaction.

Office Location(s): The role is based in either Los Angeles, CA, or Houston, TX, offering candidates a choice of major logistics hubs on the West Coast and Gulf Coast, respectively.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a professional office setting with access to necessary technology and analytical tools.

• Opportunities for collaboration with peers, senior engineers, and operational teams will be frequent.

• The environment will likely involve a mix of independent analytical work and team-based project discussions.

• Exposure to real-world logistics challenges and the chance to contribute to solutions for major clients. Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, typical for full-time roles.

• While primarily office-based, there might be occasional requirements to visit operational sites (warehouses, distribution centers) to gather data or observe processes, depending on project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles involving in-depth analysis and collaboration, especially in a company that prides itself on its global operational footprint. The choice between Los Angeles and Houston provides geographic flexibility for candidates.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into experience, technical skills (logistics engineering, data analysis), and understanding of operational principles. Be prepared to discuss academic projects or internships.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: A potential exercise involving data analysis, problem-solving, or designing a basic logistics solution. This may be presented during an interview or as a take-home assignment.

• Team/Panel Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues or cross-functional stakeholders to evaluate collaboration skills and overall fit within the team and company culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss career aspirations and final alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevance: Showcase projects that directly relate to logistics, supply chain, industrial engineering, data analysis, and process improvement.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the methodology used, and the measurable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, throughput improvements).

• Process Flow: If possible, include visual representations of processes (e.g., flowcharts, diagrams) and highlight how you analyzed or improved them.

• Data Analysis Examples: Present examples of data you analyzed, the tools used, and the insights you derived.

• Conciseness: Keep descriptions brief and to the point, highlighting key achievements and skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Interpretation: Practice analyzing sample logistics data (e.g., transportation costs, warehouse throughput, inventory levels) and identifying trends or issues.

• Process Mapping: Be ready to map out a simple logistics process (e.g., order fulfillment, inbound receiving) and suggest improvements.

• Cost Modeling Basics: Understand how to build a simple cost model for a logistics operation or a proposed change.

• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare to explain technical concepts in a clear, non-technical manner to different audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the junior nature of the role, preparation should focus on demonstrating foundational knowledge, analytical potential, and a strong desire to learn and grow within operations and logistics engineering. Academic projects are highly relevant here.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Expect to use standard office productivity suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite - Excel, PowerPoint) extensively. Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros) are crucial. Familiarity with business intelligence tools like Tableau or Power BI might be beneficial for dashboard creation.

• Logistics & Supply Chain Software: Exposure to or understanding of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is advantageous. Specific software names are not listed, but knowledge of common functionalities is key.

• Simulation/Modeling Software: While not explicitly stated, tools like Arena, AnyLogic, or specialized logistics modeling software could be used for complex projects, though less likely required for an entry-level role.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data manipulation, analysis, and charting.

• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) would be a strong plus.

• Ability to generate reports that clearly communicate findings and recommendations. CRM & Automation:

• Awareness of how CRM systems support sales and customer relationship management, which often interfaces with logistics operations.

• Understanding of basic automation concepts in logistics, such as automated data collection or workflow triggers, is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Strong Excel proficiency is paramount for this role, given its analytical and reporting demands. While specific sophisticated tools might not be explicitly required for entry-level, understanding the purpose and basic functionality of common logistics software (WMS, TMS, ERP) will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: A strong drive to optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve operational performance.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Relying on data and analytics to inform recommendations and strategic choices.

• Customer Focus: Understanding customer needs and designing solutions that deliver value and meet service level agreements (SLAs).

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of constantly seeking better ways to perform tasks and manage operations.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with sales, operations management, IT, and other departments to gather requirements and ensure buy-in for proposed solutions.

• Open Communication: Maintaining clear and transparent communication channels with team members and stakeholders regarding project status, challenges, and recommendations.

• Feedback Exchange: Willingness to provide and receive constructive feedback to refine designs and improve processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA's emphasis on a "genuine culture of recognition" and "team in every sense" suggests a supportive environment where employees are encouraged to contribute and grow. For operations roles, this translates to a culture that values analytical rigor, problem-solving, and collaborative effort.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Theory and Practice: Applying academic engineering principles to real-world, often complex and dynamic, logistics operations.

• Data Availability and Quality: Dealing with potentially incomplete or inconsistent data, requiring strong data cleaning and validation skills.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Gaining consensus and buy-in from various stakeholders with differing priorities.

• Project Scope Management: Ensuring that projects remain focused and deliverable within defined timelines and resources, especially as an entry-level professional.

• Navigating a Large Organization: Understanding the organizational structure and processes within a global company like CEVA.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Access to experienced logistics engineers and operations managers for guidance and knowledge transfer.

• On-the-Job Training: Hands-on experience with real client projects and operational challenges.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining insights into various aspects of the global supply chain and 3PL services.

• Formal Training: Potential for company-sponsored training on specific logistics software, methodologies, or project management.

• Career Pathing: Clear opportunities to advance within solution design, operations management, or other areas of CEVA Logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to learn and grow within the logistics industry. The challenges are typical for an entry-level position, but the growth opportunities are substantial due to the company's size and the nature of the operations field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex problem you analyzed and the steps you took to solve it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on process, data, and results).

• "How would you approach designing an efficient process for [e.g., inbound receiving, order picking] in a warehouse?" (Demonstrate logical thinking, process mapping, and efficiency considerations).

• "Imagine you need to present a proposed operational change to management. How would you structure your presentation to ensure buy-in?" (Highlight communication skills, data support, and understanding of stakeholder needs).

• "What are the key metrics you would track to measure the performance of a logistics operation?" (Show awareness of operational KPIs like on-time delivery, cost per unit, throughput, accuracy). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in CEVA Logistics and the field of logistics engineering?" (Connect your aspirations with their industry and mission).

• "How do you stay updated on industry trends in supply chain and logistics?" (Demonstrate proactivity and interest).

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a diverse team. What was your approach?" (Highlight teamwork and communication skills).

• "What does 'continuous improvement' mean to you in an operational context?" (Show understanding of efficiency and optimization). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

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

• Detail Your Role & Methodology: Explain your specific contributions and the engineering/analytical methods you employed.

• Showcase Data & Analysis: Present key data points and how you interpreted them to arrive at conclusions.

• Highlight Results & Impact: Quantify the benefits of your solution (e.g., percentage improvement, cost savings).

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your choices, potential alternatives, and implementation challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong analytical foundation, problem-solving aptitude, and a proactive learning mindset, rather than extensive prior management experience. Emphasize academic projects and any relevant internship experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience, academic projects, or coursework related to industrial engineering, logistics, data analysis, process improvement, and problem-solving. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile examples of relevant academic projects, internship work, or personal projects that demonstrate your analytical, design, and problem-solving skills. Focus on clear documentation of the problem, your approach, and the results.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your background using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Practice explaining technical concepts clearly and concisely, and be ready to walk through your portfolio examples.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CEVA Logistics, its services, its parent company CMA CGM, and its stated values ("Dare to Grow"). Understand the company's position in the global logistics market.

⚠️ 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.