Industrial Engineer - Operations Improvement Specialist

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid role

Professional development

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer focused on Operations Improvement to drive efficiency across production and operations. The role blends on-site analysis with strategic planning in a hybrid work setup, requiring Lean, Six Sigma, and SOP development to reduce waste and improve performance.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in industrial engineering, strong data analytics (Excel, Minitab), collaboration across shop floor to senior management, and a track

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years experience in industrial engineering focusing on operations improvement.
• Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing tools (Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 5S) and Six Sigma is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed analyses of current operational processes, workflows, and systems to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization, including Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Design and implement solutions to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality.
• Work with production supervisors, line workers, and management to implement changes and ensure buy-in.
• Utilize data analysis tools to measure performance, identify trends, and track impact of improvements.
• Develop and maintain SOPs to document optimized processes.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and equipment to improve efficiency.
• Conduct time and motion studies to analyze workforce efficiency.
• Prepare reports and presentations on findings and progress to stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the operations team.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Communication

Continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the food and beverage industry based in Port Elizabeth , is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer to focus on Operations Improvement. This role is crucial for driving efficiency and productivity gains across various production and operational areas. You will be tasked with analyzing existing workflows, identifying opportunities for streamlining, and implementing best practices in lean manufacturing and operational excellence. This position requires a blend of on-site analysis and strategic planning, making it a hybrid role that offers flexibility. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams, from shop floor operators to senior management. You will be instrumental in optimizing resource utilization, reducing waste, and enhancing overall operational performance. We are looking for a proactive and results-oriented individual who can make a tangible impact on the company's bottom line and operational effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed analyses of current operational processes, workflows, and systems to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization, including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Design and implement solutions to enhance productivity, reduce operational costs, and improve product quality.
• Work closely with production supervisors, line workers, and management to implement changes and ensure buy-in.
• Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to measure performance, identify trends, and track the impact of implemented improvements.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to document optimized processes.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and equipment to improve operational efficiency.
• Conduct time studies and motion studies to analyze workforce efficiency and identify ergonomic improvements.
• Prepare reports and presentations on findings, recommendations, and project progress to stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement throughout the operations team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a focus on operations improvement and process optimization.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 5S).
• Experience with Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively at all levels.
• Experience in the food and beverage or consumer goods manufacturing sector is advantageous.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with project management principles.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• This hybrid role provides a balance between on-site engagement and flexible work arrangements.
• Opportunities for professional development, including further training and certification, are available.
• The position is located in Port Elizabeth , offering a dynamic work environment within a leading industry player.
• Join a team dedicated to driving operational excellence.