Remote Industrial Engineer - Lean Manufacturing Systems Expert

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Flexible schedule

Home office support

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Industrial Engineer with deep Lean expertise to join a global virtual operations team.

You will design, implement, and sustain Lean methods to eliminate waste, improve flow, and drive measurable improvements across multiple facilities, including Queenstown.

The role requires leadership to train and coach teams remotely, deliver Kaizen events, and track KPIs while traveling occasionally for on-site support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 6+ years implementing Lean in industrial settings.
• Proven Lean facilitator/coach with remote delivery experience.
• Expertise in VSM, 5S, Kaizen, Kanban, Poka-Yoke.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lean strategies across multiple sites.
• Design and optimize production systems using Lean tools.
• Coach cross-functional teams and run Kaizen events.
• Develop training materials and deliver sessions.
• Track KPIs related to Lean implementation and efficiency.
• Conduct virtual and on-site Gemba walks as needed.
• Promote continuous improvement and employee engagement.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Value Stream Mapping

5S

Kaizen

Kanban

Poka-Yoke

Remote facilitation

Change management

Training & coaching

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic international manufacturing group, is seeking a highly skilled Remote Industrial Engineer with deep expertise in Lean Manufacturing Systems to join their virtual operations team. This role is fully remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing to significant operational improvements across various facilities, including those in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and sustaining Lean methodologies to eliminate waste, improve flow, and enhance overall operational efficiency. The ideal candidate is a passionate Lean practitioner with a proven ability to train, coach, and lead teams remotely to achieve measurable results. This is an exciting opportunity to drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence on a global scale. You will play a pivotal role in transforming manufacturing processes and delivering substantial value to the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of Lean Manufacturing strategies and programs across multiple sites.
• Design and optimize production systems, workflows, and layouts using Lean principles (e.g., VSM, Kaizen, 5S, Poka-Yoke).
• Facilitate and coach cross-functional teams in conducting Kaizen events and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop training materials and deliver Lean Manufacturing training sessions to employees at all levels.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to Lean implementation and operational efficiency.
• Conduct Gemba walks and process audits virtually and/or on-site as required to identify improvement opportunities.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, problem-solving, and employee engagement throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in implementing Lean Manufacturing principles and tools in an industrial setting.
• Proven experience as a Lean facilitator or coach, with a strong track record of driving successful improvement projects.
• Expertise in Value Stream Mapping (VSM), 5S, Kaizen, Kanban, Poka-Yoke, and other Lean tools.
• Excellent remote facilitation, communication, and change management skills.
• Ability to travel occasionally for on‑site support if needed.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote environment.
• Experience supporting operations in regions like Queenstown, Eastern Cape is beneficial.

Benefits

This remote position offers a competitive salary, annual performance bonuses, comprehensive health benefits, and a 401(k) or equivalent retirement plan.

We provide a flexible work schedule, home office support, and access to professional development resources.

You will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on global manufacturing operations, work with a dedicated and diverse team, and grow your career in Lean expertise.

Join our client and be a catalyst for operational excellence, driving sustainable improvements wherever you work.