Automotive Manufacturing Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, seeks an Automotive Manufacturing Engineer to optimize production across on-site and remote work. You will lead lean initiatives, improve efficiency, and drive cost and quality improvements in a hybrid environment.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in automotive manufacturing, strong lean and Six Sigma expertise, plus exposure to automation, robotics, and PLCs. Collaboration with R&D and production teams is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related engineering field.
• Minimum 5 years in automotive manufacturing engineering.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Experience with automation, robotics, and PLCs is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency and quality.
• Design production lines and modify layouts for new products.
• Analyze data to identify bottlenecks and drive improvements.
• Lead 5S, Kaizen and value stream mapping initiatives.
• Ensure safety and quality compliance (IATF 16949) and train staff.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams for manufacturability.
• Evaluate new equipment and technologies; support remote planning and on-site implementation.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

PLC Programming

Robotics

CAD

Automation

Data Analysis

Education

Bachelor's in Manufacturing Engineering

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Industrial Engineering

Tools

CAD software

PLC programming

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent automotive component manufacturer located in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , is seeking an experienced Automotive Manufacturing Engineer. This hybrid role requires an individual who can contribute to optimizing production processes both on-site and through remote collaboration. You will be responsible for improving manufacturing efficiency, reducing costs, enhancing product quality, and ensuring safe production operations. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in manufacturing processes, lean principles, automation, and process control within the automotive sector. You will work closely with production teams, quality assurance, and engineering departments to implement innovative solutions and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This position offers a significant opportunity to impact manufacturing operations and contribute to the company's success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Design and implement new production lines or modify existing ones to accommodate new products or improve workflow.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
• Lead lean manufacturing initiatives, including 5S, Kaizen, and value stream mapping.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with safety regulations and quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to ensure manufacturability of new products.
• Evaluate and select new manufacturing equipment and technologies.
• Train production personnel on new processes, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Participate in remote planning sessions and provide on-site implementation guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive manufacturing engineering.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing principles, lean manufacturing techniques, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience with process automation, robotics, and PLC programming is a plus.
• Proficiency in using CAD software for process layout and design.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, essential for working in a hybrid environment with diverse teams.
• Ability to manage time effectively and balance on-site responsibilities with remote collaboration.
• Experience in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive supplier environment is preferred.
• Must be available to work on-site in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and participate in remote activities.

Benefits

This hybrid position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on manufacturing operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . Our client provides a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development within the automotive industry.