Industrial Engineer - Process Improvement (Mining Sector)

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid plan

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development

Paid time off

Accommodation or travel allowance for

Training programs and workshops

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Industrial Engineer to optimize mining and processing operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will analyze workflows, implement lean and Six Sigma initiatives, and collaborate with site teams to improve productivity and reduce costs.

The role requires a 4+ year track record in process improvement, strong data skills, and the ability to translate insights into actionable changes in a demanding industrial setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years in industrial engineering focusing on process improvement.
• Experience in mining or heavy industry is highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze mining and processing operations to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement process improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Conduct detailed studies on production workflows, material handling, and equipment utilization.
• Design and recommend changes to operational layouts and processes to enhance productivity and safety.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
• Utilize data analysis tools to monitor operational performance and identify trends.
• Collaborate with site management and operational staff to implement best practices and drive a culture of continuous improvement.
• Develop business cases for process improvement projects, including cost-benefit analysis.
• Track and report on the progress and impact of implemented improvements.
• Provide training and support to operational teams on new processes and methodologies.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical methods

Process mapping

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Analytical thinking

Communication

Teamwork

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and resources sector, is seeking a dedicated and innovative Industrial Engineer to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role focuses on enhancing the efficiency and productivity of mining operations through process analysis, optimization, and the implementation of lean methodologies. The successful candidate will work closely with operational teams to identify opportunities for improvement, streamline workflows, and reduce operational costs. This is a hands‑on role requiring strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of industrial engineering principles, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights within a demanding operational environment. You will play a key role in ensuring our client's competitive edge by driving continuous improvement initiatives. The position is critical for optimizing resource utilization and operational performance within our client's significant presence in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze mining and processing operations to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement process improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Conduct detailed studies on production workflows, material handling, and equipment utilization.
• Design and recommend changes to operational layouts and processes to enhance productivity and safety.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
• Utilize data analysis tools to monitor operational performance and identify trends.
• Collaborate with site management and operational staff to implement best practices and drive a culture of continuous improvement.
• Develop business cases for process improvement projects, including cost-benefit analysis.
• Track and report on the progress and impact of implemented improvements.
• Provide training and support to operational teams on new processes and methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a focus on process improvement.
• Experience within the mining or heavy industrial sector is highly advantageous.
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical methods, and process mapping tools.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies (certification is a plus).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a challenging operational environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis.
• Willingness to travel to different operational sites as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid plan and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the company.
• Paid time off and company-mandated leave days.
• Exposure to large-scale industrial operations in the resource sector.
• A supportive work environment dedicated to safety and efficiency in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .
• Company-provided accommodation or travel allowance for site visits.
• Access to training programs and workshops for skill enhancement.