Industrial Engineer - Operations Improvement Specialist

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a well-established manufacturing company in Welkom, South Africa, seeking an Industrial Engineer focused on operations improvement. You will analyse workflows, apply lean manufacturing methods, and drive cost reductions while enhancing output in a hands-on, plant-floor environment.

Responsibilities include time studies, standard work, and training production staff on new processes, with KPI tracking and participation in capital projects to sustain operational

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years in industrial engineering focused on operations improvement and lean manufacturing.
• Experience applying lean tools: 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, and Poka-Yoke.
• Proficient in data analysis and tools (Excel, Minitab).
• Knowledge of production planning and control systems.
• Strong problem-solving and methodical root-cause approach.
• Good communication and ability to work with shop-floor personnel.
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently.
• CAD software for layout design is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Analyze processes and layouts to identify improvement opportunities.
• Apply lean and Six Sigma to reduce waste and improve quality.
• Develop standardized work procedures and best practices.
• Conduct time studies and data analysis to optimize resources.
• Collaborate with supervisors to implement process changes.
• Design and test new process layouts and material flow.
• Develop training materials and train staff on new processes.
• Monitor KPIs for production efficiency, quality, cost.
• Contribute to continuous improvement culture in Welkom.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

5S

Kaizen

Value Stream Mapping

Poka-Yoke

Excel

Minitab

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established manufacturing company in Welkom, Free State, ZA, is seeking a dedicated and proactive Industrial Engineer with a specialization in operations improvement. This role is crucial for driving efficiency and productivity gains within the plant. The Industrial Engineer will be responsible for analyzing current operational workflows, identifying areas of inefficiency, and developing practical, data-driven solutions to enhance output and reduce costs. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to work on impactful projects that directly influence the company's bottom line and operational excellence. The successful candidate will be a key contributor to the continuous improvement culture within the organization, based in Welkom.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing processes, workflows, and layouts to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, eliminate non-value-added activities, and improve quality.
• Develop and implement standardized work procedures and best practices.
• Conduct time studies and data analysis to optimize resource utilization and production scheduling.
• Collaborate with production supervisors and team members to implement process changes and ensure adoption.
• Design and test new process layouts and material flow strategies.
• Develop training materials and conduct training sessions for production staff on new processes and efficiency techniques.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Participate in capital expenditure requests and projects related to process improvements and equipment upgrades.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement within the operations team in Welkom, Free State, ZA.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a strong focus on operations improvement and lean manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience in applying lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, and Poka-Yoke.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).
• Understanding of production planning and control systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a methodical approach to identifying root causes.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with shop-floor personnel.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience with CAD software for layout design is a plus.
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in Welkom, Free State, ZA.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development. Employees also enjoy paid annual leave and a supportive team environment focused on achieving operational excellence. This role is based in Welkom, Free State, ZA.