Industrial Engineer - Process Improvement Specialist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement savings plan

Generous annual leave

Sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer in Nelspruit to lead process improvement across manufacturing and operations. The role focuses on identifying inefficiencies, applying Lean and Six Sigma, and delivering sustainable productivity gains.

You will analyze processes, design improved workflows, and train teams on best practices, aiming to reduce waste, cut costs, and boost quality and competitiveness. A hands-on problem-solver with strong data skills is ideal.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial engineering with a strong focus on process improvement.
• Demonstrated expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred).
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and process mapping.
• Experience with simulation software is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage projects and drive change within an organization.
• Familiarity with agro-processing or related manufacturing environments is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed process analysis to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and implement process optimization projects, focusing on waste reduction, cost savings, and quality enhancement.
• Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to measure process performance and identify root causes of issues.
• Design and document improved workflows, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and best practices.
• Facilitate cross-functional teams in problem-solving and improvement activities.
• Train employees on process improvement tools and techniques.
• Monitor the impact of implemented changes and ensure sustainability of improvements.
• Prepare reports and present findings and recommendations to management.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Data analysis

SPC

Process mapping

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the agro-processing industry located in Nelspruit , is actively seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer to specialize in process improvement. This role is fundamental to driving operational efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing productivity across all manufacturing and operational areas. You will be tasked with analyzing existing processes, identifying opportunities for optimization using methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, and implementing sustainable solutions. The ideal candidate will have a strong analytical aptitude, a hands-on approach to problem-solving, and a proven track record in delivering tangible improvements. This is an excellent opportunity to make a substantial contribution to the efficiency and competitiveness of our client’s operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed process analysis to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and implement process optimization projects, focusing on waste reduction, cost savings, and quality enhancement.
• Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to measure process performance and identify root causes of issues.
• Design and document improved workflows, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and best practices.
• Facilitate cross-functional teams in problem-solving and improvement activities.
• Train employees on process improvement tools and techniques.
• Monitor the impact of implemented changes and ensure sustainability of improvements.
• Prepare reports and present findings and recommendations to management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial engineering with a strong focus on process improvement.
• Demonstrated expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred).
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and process mapping.
• Experience with simulation software is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage projects and drive change within an organization.
• Familiarity with agro-processing or related manufacturing environments is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health coverage, and a retirement savings plan. This role based in Nelspruit provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement. Generous annual leave and sick leave are provided. Our client is dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive workplace culture. You will have the opportunity to work on impactful projects that drive significant operational enhancements and contribute to the company’s success.