Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid role

Training and development opportunities

Stable and rewarding work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer in East London, Eastern Cape to optimize production lines and improve efficiency in automotive components. The role requires hands-on experience with lean methods and Six Sigma within an automotive setting, plus collaboration across engineering and production teams.

You will design, implement, and refine manufacturing processes to meet targets while upholding safety and quality standards in a dynamic facility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing process engineering, preferably in automotive.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing concepts and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience with process simulation and modeling tools is a plus.
• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for automotive components.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Design and implement lean tools and techniques (5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping).
• Develop SOPs and work instructions for manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve issues.
• Evaluate and recommend new manufacturing technologies and equipment.
• Lead process improvement projects and ensure sustainment.
• Train production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and ISO/IATF standards.

Skills

Lean manufacturing concepts

Six Sigma methodologies

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field

Tools

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive component manufacturer, is seeking an experienced Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer to join their team in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is crucial for optimizing production lines, improving efficiency, and ensuring the highest quality standards in the manufacturing of automotive parts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing processes, lean methodologies, and continuous improvement initiatives within an automotive setting. You will play a key role in designing, implementing, and refining manufacturing processes to meet production targets and enhance operational performance. Your expertise will be vital to the success of our manufacturing operations in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for automotive components.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Design and implement lean manufacturing tools and techniques (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping).
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve manufacturing issues.
• Evaluate and recommend new manufacturing technologies and equipment.
• Lead process improvement projects and ensure successful implementation and sustainment.
• Train production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and environmental standards within the manufacturing facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing process engineering, preferably in the automotive industry.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing principles, lean manufacturing concepts, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Experience with process simulation and modeling tools is a plus.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, able to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with quality management systems such as ISO 9001 or IATF 16949.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and potential for performance bonuses.
• Employees have access to ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and career progression.
• The company promotes a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork, providing a stable and rewarding work environment in East London .
• This hybrid role allows for effective collaboration and focused independent work.