Industrial Engineer - Plant Layout and Flow Optimization

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Durban-based role

Occasional travel

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking an Industrial Engineer to optimize plant layouts and material flow for improved productivity. The role involves hands‑on design, analysis, and implementation on the factory floor with close collaboration across operations and safety teams.

The ideal candidate has a background in Lean manufacturing, ergonomics and simulation tools, plus strong problem‑solving and communication skills. Durban based role with potential travel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 4–6 years in industrial engineering focused on layout and flow.
• Proficient CAD layout design (AutoCAD).
• Experience with simulation tools (Arena, FlexSim) is an advantage.
• Strong lean manufacturing knowledge and ergonomics awareness.
• Good communication and cross‑functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing plant layouts and material flow for inefficiencies and safety concerns.
• Design optimized layouts and workstation configurations to improve handling and ergonomics.
• Develop strategies for production flow, line balancing, and workflows.
• Use CAD and simulation tools to test proposed improvements.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and safety teams to implement changes.
• Create and maintain SOPs for plant layout and material flow.
• Conduct time and motion studies to improve task efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Support new product introductions with layout and flow planning.
• Provide training on new layouts and improved workflows.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

5S

Value stream mapping

Ergonomics

Analytical thinking

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Arena

FlexSim

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the automotive manufacturing sector located in Durban , is looking for a dedicated Industrial Engineer specializing in plant layout and flow optimization. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency and productivity of our client's production facilities. You will be responsible for analyzing existing plant layouts, designing improved configurations, and implementing strategies to optimize material and human flow. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, ergonomic principles, and lean manufacturing techniques. This is a hands‑on position that requires regular interaction with production staff, line supervisors, and management teams on the factory floor. We are seeking an individual who can translate complex operational challenges into practical, effective solutions, directly contributing to the company's competitive advantage. The role demands meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem‑solving within a dynamic industrial setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing plant layouts and material flow to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and safety concerns.
• Design optimized plant layouts and workstation designs to improve material handling, reduce travel time, and enhance ergonomics.
• Develop and implement strategies for optimizing production flow, line balancing, and workflow processes.
• Utilize CAD software and simulation tools to visualize and test proposed layout and flow improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, maintenance, and safety, to ensure effective implementation of changes.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to plant layout and material flow.
• Conduct time and motion studies to analyze task efficiency and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the optimized workspace.
• Support new product introductions by developing layouts and flow strategies for new production lines.
• Provide training and guidance to production personnel on new layouts and improved workflows.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a strong focus on plant layout, material flow, and workstation design.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar CAD software for layout design.
• Experience with simulation software (e.g., Arena, FlexSim) is a strong advantage.
• Solid understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Value Stream Mapping).
• Knowledge of ergonomic principles and workplace safety standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with various stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience in the automotive or heavy manufacturing industry is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including annual bonuses and potential for salary reviews based on performance.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including access to industry conferences and specialized training, are available.
• The role is based in Durban , and the company offers a stable and supportive working environment within a leading manufacturing firm.
• Occasional travel may be required for specific projects.