Process Improvement Engineer, Manufacturing Operations

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Process Improvement Engineer for its East London, Eastern Cape operations. The role focuses on applying lean manufacturing and Six Sigma to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness across production.

You will lead improvement projects, map and analyze processes, and collaborate with production, QA, and engineering to embed best practices and drive continuous improvement on the factory floor.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 4+ years of experience in process improvement, lean manufacturing, or industrial engineering in manufacturing.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher) preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to interpret data.
• Proficiency in process mapping, data analysis, and statistical tools.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead teams and drive projects to completion.
• MES experience is a plus.”

Responsibilities

• Identify, analyze, and document current manufacturing processes to find improvements.
• Lead cross-functional teams in implementing lean and Six Sigma projects.
• Develop and implement process improvements to reduce waste and cycle times.
• Use data analysis to measure performance and identify root causes.
• Create SOPs and work instructions for improved processes.
• Train production staff and supervisors on PI techniques.
• Monitor effectiveness of changes and ensure sustainable results.
• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to integrate new technologies.
• Contribute to preventative maintenance strategies for production equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Process Mapping

Data Analysis

Statistical Tools

Project Leadership

MES

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the automotive components industry, is seeking a proactive Process Improvement Engineer for their operations in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is dedicated to enhancing the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of manufacturing processes through the application of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying opportunities for improvement, leading improvement projects, and ensuring the successful implementation of best practices across the production floor. You will collaborate closely with production teams, quality assurance, and engineering departments to drive a culture of continuous improvement. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute significantly to operational excellence in a key industrial hub. Join a team committed to innovation and efficiency, making a tangible difference in the manufacturing landscape of the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, analyze, and document current manufacturing processes to pinpoint areas for improvement.
• Lead and facilitate cross-functional teams in the implementation of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma projects.
• Develop and implement process improvements to reduce waste, improve cycle times, and enhance product quality.
• Utilize data analysis tools and statistical methods to measure process performance and identify root causes of issues.
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for improved processes.
• Train and mentor production staff and supervisors on process improvement techniques and best practices.
• Monitor the effectiveness of implemented changes and ensure sustainable results.
• Collaborate with engineering and quality departments to integrate new technologies and processes.
• Contribute to the development of preventative maintenance strategies for production equipment.
• Ensure all process improvements comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in process improvement, lean manufacturing, or industrial engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with Lean Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification strongly preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Proficiency in process mapping, data analysis, and statistical tools.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead teams and drive projects to successful completion.
• Experience with manufacturing execution systems (MES) is a plus.
• Adaptability and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and performance bonuses. Opportunities for professional growth, training, and career advancement are available. The company promotes a collaborative and innovative work environment, supporting work-life balance for its employees in East London .