Industrial Engineer - Process Improvement & Lean Manufacturing

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and provident fund

Generous annual leave

Lean/Six Sigma certifications

Professional development opportunities

Career advancement potential

Safety programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Industrial Engineer with a strong background in Lean and process improvement to optimize manufacturing and operational processes at our Welkom site. The role focuses on eliminating waste, improving productivity, and reducing costs through data-driven strategies and hands-on engagement with operational teams.

You will facilitate workshops, map processes, develop standards, and implement KPIs to drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 3 years in an industrial engineering role with a proven focus on process improvement and Lean implementation.
• Demonstrated experience applying Lean Manufacturing tools and techniques.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis, including statistical methods.
• Experience with process mapping and simulation tools is beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to issues.
• Good communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work independently and in teams in a fast-paced operational environment in Welkom.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and data reporting tools.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in industrial engineering.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing and operational processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, SMED) to streamline operations and eliminate waste.
• Develop and implement process improvement projects, including defining project scope, objectives, and timelines.
• Collect and analyze production data to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for optimization.
• Design and implement standard work procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Facilitate cross-functional team meetings and workshops to drive problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and track KPIs related to process efficiency, productivity, and cost.
• Create process flow diagrams, layout designs, and SOPs.
• Provide training and coaching to staff on Lean methodologies and best practices.
• Ensure all implemented processes comply with safety and quality standards.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Process Improvement

Data Analysis

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering or related technical discipline

Tools

ERP systems

Data reporting tools

Process mapping tools

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the mining supply chain sector, is seeking a dedicated Industrial Engineer to focus on Process Improvement and Lean Manufacturing principles. Located in Welkom, this role is essential for enhancing operational efficiency, optimizing resource allocation, and driving continuous improvement across their various operational sites. You will be responsible for analyzing complex processes, identifying areas of waste and inefficiency, and implementing data-driven solutions to improve productivity and reduce costs. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of Lean methodologies and a passion for operational excellence. This is a great opportunity to contribute to a company that values innovation and efficiency, working within a challenging and rewarding environment. Your role will involve hands‑on engagement with operational teams, facilitating workshops, and implementing changes that lead to tangible improvements in performance and profitability. You will be instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing and operational processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, SMED) to streamline operations and eliminate waste.
• Develop and implement process improvement projects, including defining project scope, objectives, and timelines.
• Collect and analyze production data to identify trends, root causes of problems, and opportunities for optimization.
• Design and implement standard work procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Facilitate cross-functional team meetings and workshops to drive problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to process efficiency, productivity, and cost.
• Create process flow diagrams, layout designs, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Provide training and coaching to operational staff on Lean methodologies and best practices.
• Ensure all implemented processes comply with safety and quality standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an industrial engineering role, with a proven focus on process improvement and Lean implementation.
• Demonstrated experience applying Lean Manufacturing tools and techniques.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis, including statistical methods.
• Experience with process mapping and simulation tools is beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Good communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced operational environment in Welkom.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and data reporting tools.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field of industrial engineering.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave and company shutdown periods.
• Opportunities for professional development and Lean/Six Sigma certifications.
• Exposure to a critical sector of the South African economy.
• A collaborative and results-oriented work culture.
• Stable employment with a reputable organization.
• Supportive management team committed to employee growth.
• Potential for future career advancement within the organization.
• Employee wellness and safety programs.