Industrial Engineer - Plant Operations & Efficiency

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer for a Richards Bay-based role focusing on driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement within a chemical manufacturing environment. You will analyze production processes, apply lean methodologies, and identify opportunities to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve safety.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years in plant operations, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in process mapping and simulation tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience focused on plant operations and process improvement.
• Proven experience with lean manufacturing tools and methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Analyze plant operations to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement lean process improvements (5S, Kaizen, VSM).
• Conduct time studies and workflow analyses to optimize scheduling and resources.
• Design plant layouts and workflows to improve efficiency and safety.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance and quality teams to address issues.
• Maintain SOPs and process documentation.
• Track KPIs related to productivity and efficiency.
• Investigate variances and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Process mapping

Data analysis

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Process mapping software

Simulation software

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the chemical manufacturing industry, is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer to join their team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement within our plant facilities. You will be responsible for analyzing production processes, implementing lean methodologies, and identifying opportunities to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve safety. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical capability, practical experience in process optimization, and the ability to work effectively in a plant environment. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a well-established company operating in a key industrial region.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze plant operations, including production lines, material handling, and equipment utilization, to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement process improvements using lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, VSM).
• Conduct time studies and workflow analyses to optimize production scheduling and resource allocation.
• Design plant layouts and workflow improvements to enhance efficiency and safety.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and quality teams to solve operational challenges.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to plant productivity and efficiency.
• Investigate production variances and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Industrial Engineer, with a significant focus on plant operations and process improvement.
• Proven experience with lean manufacturing tools and methodologies.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data analysis skills.
• Proficiency in process mapping, simulation software, and statistical analysis tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Experience in the chemical or heavy manufacturing industry is a strong advantage.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including potential performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the organization are available.
• You will be part of a stable and respected company with a commitment to operational excellence and employee well-being.
• The role is based in the strategically important port city of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a vibrant industrial setting and coastal lifestyle.