Master Graduation Assignment: Redesign of item allocation model for warehouse storage

Master Graduation Assignment: Redesign of Item Allocation Model for Warehouse Storage

Develop a comprehensive data science model for item allocation, increasing the efficiency of handling within PACCAR Parts Europe’s distribution centers

For our Data Analytics team, we are looking for a graduate student who will conduct research on how to improve the existing velocity-based allocation model of item allocation in our European Parts Distribution Centers. The current model has been in use for some time, and it is expected that there is room for improvement. The goal is to find a more efficient model, leading to an increase in speed of delivery to our customers and an increase in our internal efficiency and productivity.

As a graduate student, you will conduct research and analysis on the most appropriate method, design an optimized data-driven model which is feasible for implementation, and simulate the new model to prove its value. The Data Analytics team will support you in understanding the PACCAR Parts systems, retrieving data, business modeling, and other technical matters.

Your main responsibilities include:

• Find state-of-the-art methods for item allocation in a warehouse environment
• Identify the most valuable method for PACCAR Parts, considering feasibility as well
• Prove the effect and value of the proposed method using simulation
• Stretch target: implementation of the improved method

Your profile

We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious Master's student who is pursuing a degree in the fields of Operations Management & Logistics, Data Science, Econometrics, or Supply Chain Management with a strong data-driven component.

• You have a basic understanding of warehouse and/or logistics processes
• You can easily deal with large amounts of data, in understanding, structuring, and analysis
• You have some experience in SQL
• You can demonstrate creativity and think beyond existing structures
• You are able to convert real-world situations into simulation or analytical models using available data
• You can work independently, you are proactive, and you are curious
• You feel comfortable communicating in English; native Dutch speaking is preferred

Department

PACCAR Parts Europe (PPE) is responsible for distribution of truck parts to over 1,000 DAF Trucks dealers all over Europe for truck maintenance and repairs. PPE operates five state-of-the-art distribution centers (Parts Distribution Centers) in Eindhoven, Leyland, Madrid, Budapest, and Massbach.

Within PACCAR Parts Europe, the Data Analytics team is responsible for data analytics, reporting, and intelligent data solutions for PACCAR Parts operation. All in order to contribute to PACCAR Parts’ objective to maximize the speed of delivery to our customers, and meanwhile ensure maximum internal efficiency and productivity.

We offer

• A view behind the scenes at a large international corporation
• You will get a lot of freedom and responsibility. We are open to your initiatives and, depending on the assignment, you will see your results reflected in the workplace
• An experienced coach and supervisor who can teach you a lot and is willing to help you with your assignment
• After your graduation, you will have the opportunity to start your career at DAF
• An internship wage of €375 (Bachelor) or €450 (Master) per month on a full-time basis
• A travel allowance, if you don’t have a student travel product (provided by the Dutch government)
• A housing allowance, if you temporarily rent a room near DAF