Manufacturing Process Improvement Engineer

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Professional development

Leave benefits

PPE and safety training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Manufacturing Process Improvement Engineer to drive efficiency and quality in our client’s Queenstown facility. You will analyze workflows, design Lean and Six Sigma improvements, and lead trials to reduce waste and boost product quality.

You'll work with production, quality, and management to implement changes, develop SOPs, and train staff. A strong analytical mindset and hands-on approach are essential for continuous improvement and operational success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering or a related manufacturing-focused discipline.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen techniques.
• Strong data analysis and Excel skills; ability to visualize data.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
• Develop and implement Lean/Six Sigma based process improvements.
• Conduct time studies and root-cause investigations for production issues.
• Design pilot tests for new process techniques or equipment modifications.
• Update SOPs and work instructions to reflect improvements.
• Collaborate with production staff to ensure implementation and adoption of changes.
• Track KPIs related to efficiency, cost reduction, and quality improvements.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Train production personnel on new processes and best practices.
• Support selection of new equipment and technologies.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

5S

Value Stream Mapping

Poka-Yoke

Excel

Data analysis

Communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a growing manufacturing enterprise located in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, is seeking a dedicated Manufacturing Process Improvement Engineer. This role is essential for identifying and implementing enhancements to existing production processes to boost efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. The engineer will work closely with production teams, quality control, and management to analyze workflows, conduct trials, and implement sustainable process changes. We are looking for an individual with a strong analytical mindset, a practical understanding of manufacturing principles, and a passion for driving continuous improvement. This is a key position contributing directly to the operational success and competitiveness of the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify areas of inefficiency, bottlenecks, and potential for improvement.
• Develop and implement process improvements using methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Conduct time studies, workflow analyses, and root cause investigations for production issues.
• Design and implement pilot tests for new process techniques or equipment modifications.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to reflect improved processes.
• Collaborate with production staff, supervisors, and management to ensure successful implementation and adoption of changes.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to process efficiency, cost reduction, and quality improvements.
• Ensure all implemented processes adhere to safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality management systems.
• Train production personnel on new processes and best practices.
• Contribute to the selection and justification of new manufacturing equipment and technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related manufacturing-focused engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, focusing on process improvement or industrial engineering.
• Solid understanding and practical application of Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., 5S, Value Stream Mapping, Poka-Yoke).
• Experience with Six Sigma methodologies and tools is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools, including Excel and potentially statistical software.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with all levels of staff.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Hands-on approach and a commitment to continuous learning.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Queenstown, Eastern Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in process improvement methodologies.
• Exposure to a wide range of manufacturing challenges and solutions.
• A stable and supportive work environment within a growing company.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave benefits.
• Company-provided PPE and safety training.
• Potential for career progression within the manufacturing operations team.