Continuous Improvement Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive annual salary

Performance-based bonus structure

Medical aid and retirement fund

Opportunities for advanced training

Generous paid annual leave

Growth-oriented environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Continuous Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence from Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will lead improvement initiatives, apply Lean Six Sigma tools, and mentor teams to reduce waste and boost efficiency across manufacturing processes.

The role requires a Green Belt with 4+ years in CI or process engineering. You will map processes, develop SOPs, and support automation projects to sustain gains within a dynamic agricultural technology context.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a relevant technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in continuous improvement, process engineering, or a similar role.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is required; Black Belt certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing and operational departments.
• Apply Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, VSM, 5S, Poka-Yoke) to identify and eliminate waste and inefficiencies.
• Analyse existing processes, identify bottlenecks, and develop data-driven solutions for improvement.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices.
• Train and mentor employees at all levels on continuous improvement concepts and tools.
• Monitor KPIs to track the progress and impact of improvement projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful project implementation and sustainability.
• Conduct process audits and recommend corrective actions.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and automation to enhance operational efficiency.
• Contribute to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organisation in Nelspruit.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Kaizen

Value Stream Mapping

5S

Poka-Yoke

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

Minitab

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic leader in the agricultural technology sector, is seeking a skilled Continuous Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence. This role is essential for identifying and implementing enhancements to manufacturing and business processes, aiming to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall quality. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial engineering, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and a passion for problem-solving. The position is based in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**, a region known for its agricultural significance and growing industrial presence. Our client values innovation and efficiency, offering a stimulating work environment that encourages professional development and rewards proactive contributions. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on operational performance in a key South African economic sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing and operational departments.
• Apply Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, VSM, 5S, Poka-Yoke) to identify and eliminate waste and inefficiencies.
• Analyse existing processes, identify bottlenecks, and develop data-driven solutions for improvement.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices.
• Train and mentor employees at all levels on continuous improvement concepts and tools.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the progress and impact of improvement projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful project implementation and sustainability.
• Conduct process audits and recommend corrective actions.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and automation to enhance operational efficiency.
• Contribute to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organisation in **Nelspruit**.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a relevant technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in continuous improvement, process engineering, or a similar role.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is required; Black Belt certification is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Proficiency in process mapping, statistical analysis, and relevant software (e.g., Minitab, Excel).
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead projects and influence change across different departments.
• Experience in the agricultural technology or related manufacturing sector is a plus.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Candidates based in or willing to relocate to **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga** are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contribution.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Generous paid annual leave.
• Exposure to innovative practices in the agricultural technology sector in **Nelspruit**.
• A supportive and growth-oriented work environment.
• Career progression opportunities within a stable organisation.