Automotive Manufacturing Engineer

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 58,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automotive Manufacturing Engineer for a hybrid role in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will optimize production processes, introduce lean initiatives, and collaborate with R&D and production teams to ensure manufacturability and quality.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of automotive manufacturing experience, strong lean and Six Sigma knowledge, and hands-on automation/CAD capabilities. On-site work with remote planning is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical/Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing engineering.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience with process automation, robotics, and PLCs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency and quality.
• Design new production lines or modify existing ones for new products.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and improvements.
• Lead lean initiatives (5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping) across lines.
• Troubleshoot issues and implement corrective actions to ensure safety and quality.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to ensure manufacturability.
• Evaluate and select new equipment and technologies.
• Train personnel on new processes, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Participate in remote planning sessions and provide on-site guidance.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Automation

CAD

PLC programming

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Manufacturing | Mechanical | Industrial)

Tools

CAD software

Robotics/Automation tools

PLC programming tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent automotive component manufacturer located in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , is seeking an experienced Automotive Manufacturing Engineer. This hybrid role requires an individual who can contribute to optimizing production processes both on-site and through remote collaboration. You will be responsible for improving manufacturing efficiency, reducing costs, enhancing product quality, and ensuring safe production operations. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in manufacturing processes, lean principles, automation, and process control within the automotive sector. You will work closely with production teams, quality assurance, and engineering departments to implement innovative solutions and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This position offers a significant opportunity to impact manufacturing operations and contribute to the company's success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Design and implement new production lines or modify existing ones to accommodate new products or improve workflow.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
• Lead lean manufacturing initiatives, including 5S, Kaizen, and value stream mapping.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with safety regulations and quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to ensure manufacturability of new products.
• Evaluate and select new manufacturing equipment and technologies.
• Train production personnel on new processes, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Participate in remote planning sessions and provide on-site implementation guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive manufacturing engineering.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing principles, lean manufacturing techniques, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience with process automation, robotics, and PLC programming is a plus.
• Proficiency in using CAD software for process layout and design.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, essential for working in a hybrid environment with diverse teams.
• Ability to manage time effectively and balance on-site responsibilities with remote collaboration.
• Experience in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive supplier environment is preferred.
• Must be available to work on-site in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and participate in remote activities.

Benefits

• This hybrid position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on manufacturing operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape .
• Our client provides a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development within the automotive industry.