Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career advancement

Mossel Bay location

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking an Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer to optimize production lines, improve efficiency, and ensure quality in vehicle assembly. You will analyze processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement lean solutions on a dynamic production floor.

The ideal candidate has 3–5 years in manufacturing process engineering, with expertise in lean tools, SPC, data analysis, and CAD/layout design.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in manufacturing process engineering, preferably automotive.
• Strong knowledge of lean principles and SPC.
• Experience with data analysis and layout design is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
• Develop and implement new processes and technologies to boost productivity and quality.
• Apply lean tools (Kaizen, 5S, VSM) to streamline operations.
• Monitor SPC to maintain consistent product quality.
• Collaborate with production, QA, and R&D to address issues and implement corrective actions.
• Design plant layouts and workflows for efficiency and safety.
• Develop SOPs and train production staff.
• Support NPI processes and track KPIs related to production performance.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards in Mossel Bay.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

SPC

Analytical thinking

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is looking for a dedicated Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer to join their facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role is integral to optimizing production lines, improving efficiency, and ensuring the highest quality standards in vehicle assembly. You will be responsible for analyzing existing manufacturing processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing innovative solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles, statistical process control, and has hands‑on experience in a production environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a leading automotive manufacturer in the scenic Western Cape region, working on cutting‑edge production technologies. We foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence, providing a challenging yet rewarding career path. Your expertise will directly impact the efficiency and quality of our automotive products, ensuring our competitiveness in the market.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement new manufacturing processes and technologies to enhance productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Utilize lean manufacturing tools and methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, VSM) to streamline operations.
• Implement and monitor Statistical Process Control (SPC) to ensure consistent product quality.
• Collaborate with production teams, quality assurance, and R&D to troubleshoot manufacturing issues and implement corrective actions.
• Design and optimize plant layouts and workflows for maximum efficiency and safety.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and provide training to production staff.
• Participate in new product introduction (NPI) processes, ensuring manufacturing readiness.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production efficiency, quality, and cost, and report on progress.
• Ensure all processes comply with safety regulations and environmental standards in Mossel Bay.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing process engineering, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles and tools.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Experience with Quality Management Systems (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949).
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Experience with CAD software for layout design is a plus.
• Must have legal working rights in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for career advancement within a globally recognized organization.
• This role is based in beautiful Mossel Bay, Western Cape, offering a high quality of life.
• We provide a dynamic and supportive work environment with a focus on employee development and safety.
• Join a team committed to manufacturing excellence and innovation in the automotive industry.