Industrial Engineer - Operations & Efficiency Specialist

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Industrial Engineer to join our manufacturing client in Queenstown, Eastern Cape as an Operations & Efficiency Specialist. You will analyze processes, drive Lean/Six Sigma initiatives, and optimize layouts to boost productivity and reduce waste.

You will collaborate with production, maintenance, and QA teams, develop SOPs, and train staff on best practices to achieve operations excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field required.
• At least 3 years of manufacturing industrial engineering experience.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing: 5S, Kaizen, VSM.
• Six Sigma knowledge is a plus; Green Belt preferred.
• Strong analytical, data-driven problem-solving and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Excel and CAD tools for layout design.
• Ability to work effectively in a plant environment.

Responsibilities

• Analyze production processes to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
• Lead Lean/Six Sigma initiatives to reduce waste and costs.
• Design and optimize layouts and material flow.
• Conduct time and motion studies to establish standard work.
• Monitor KPIs on output, quality, and cost; report trends.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality to sustain improvements.
• Develop SOPs and visual management tools.
• Train personnel on process improvement techniques.
• Support new equipment or technologies for efficiency.
• Mentor shop floor staff in best practices.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

5S

Kaizen

VSM

Excel

CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified manufacturing company based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer to serve as an Operations & Efficiency Specialist. This role is central to enhancing the productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness of our manufacturing operations. You will be responsible for analyzing current processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing solutions that drive operational excellence. This includes optimizing workflows, reducing waste, and ensuring efficient use of resources. The successful candidate will work closely with plant management, production staff, and quality assurance teams to achieve these objectives. This is a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact on a key industrial facility in the Eastern Cape, contributing directly to the company's success and growth. We are looking for a results-oriented engineer with a strong understanding of manufacturing principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze production processes, workflows, and operational data to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for cost reduction.
• Develop and implement process improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other relevant methodologies.
• Design and optimize manufacturing layouts and material flow to improve efficiency and safety.
• Conduct time and motion studies to establish standard work times and improve task productivity.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production output, quality, and cost, reporting on performance and trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and quality, to implement and sustain improvements.
• Develop and implement visual management tools and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste in all forms (e.g., defects, overproduction, excess inventory).
• Support the implementation of new equipment or technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
• Train and mentor production personnel on process improvement techniques and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in industrial engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, VSM).
• Experience with Six Sigma methodologies is a plus (Green Belt certification desirable).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel) and manufacturing process analysis.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with shop floor personnel and management.
• Familiarity with CAD software for layout design is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing plant environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary and a performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, is offered.
• Opportunities for professional development and training are available.
• The role is based in Queenstown, providing a stable work environment within the Eastern Cape.
• Join a company committed to operational excellence and employee development.