Senior Industrial Engineer - Operations Excellence

Placements24; Riverton (UT); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Engineer focused on Operations Excellence for a hybrid role in Upington, Northern Cape. You will lead Lean/Six Sigma projects, mentor engineers, and drive continuous improvement across Manufacturing and adjacent functions.

The role demands a Master’s in Industrial Engineering, 7+ years of industry experience, and a Black Belt in Six Sigma, with Master Black Belt as a plus. Relocation assistance may be available.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial engineering or operations management focused on process improvement.
• Black Belt in Six Sigma is required; Master Black Belt is a plus.
• Proven experience leading Lean Manufacturing projects.
• Proficient in data analysis, SPC, and simulation software.
• Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in hybrid environments with on-site leadership.
• Experience in heavy industry or goods production is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational excellence initiatives across manufacturing and supporting functions.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and CI methods to optimize processes and reduce waste.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and develop data-driven strategies.
• Conduct process mapping, value stream analysis and root-cause investigations.
• Manage and execute improvement projects from initiation to completion with measurable results.
• Develop and implement KPIs to monitor efficiency and progress.
• Mentor junior engineers and staff on CI principles and tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive holistic improvements.
• Ensure adherence to safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Promote culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Data analysis

SPC

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major industrial goods producer, is seeking a Senior Industrial Engineer focused on Operations Excellence for their facility in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is instrumental in driving significant improvements in manufacturing efficiency, productivity, and quality across the operation. The successful candidate will lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and implement advanced methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and Total Quality Management (TQM). We are looking for a results-oriented professional with a proven ability to analyze complex operational data, develop strategic solutions, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. This hybrid role requires strong on-site engagement for project execution and team collaboration, balanced with remote work flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the identification, development, and implementation of operational excellence initiatives across manufacturing and supporting functions.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to optimize processes and reduce waste.
• Analyze production data, identify trends, and develop data-driven strategies for performance enhancement.
• Conduct process mapping, value stream analysis, and root cause investigations to address operational challenges.
• Manage and execute improvement projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery and measurable results.
• Develop and implement performance metrics (KPIs) to monitor operational efficiency and track progress towards goals.
• Mentor and coach junior engineers and operational staff on continuous improvement principles and tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to drive holistic improvements.
• Ensure adherence to all company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering or operations management, with a strong focus on process improvement.
• Black Belt certification in Six Sigma is required; Master Black Belt is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and successfully implementing Lean Manufacturing projects.
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and simulation software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management capabilities.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, demonstrating effective remote collaboration and on-site leadership.
• Proven ability to drive change and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Experience in heavy industry or goods production is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and a significant annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement annuity, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for extensive professional development, including advanced certifications and leadership training.
• Significant scope for impact and career advancement within a leading industrial organization.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility while ensuring strong operational presence.
• Relocation assistance may be available for candidates relocating to Upington.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment focused on operational excellence.