Industrial Engineering Manager - Automotive Sector

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

International travel opportunities

Performance-based bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineering Manager to oversee operations in Pretoria, South Africa. You will lead a team of industrial engineers, drive efficiency across manufacturing lines, and ensure quality and safety standards are met in a hybrid work setting with on-site and remote flexibility.

The role requires a Master's in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering, 10+ years in industrial engineering, and 5+ years in management within automotive contexts.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with 5+ years in a management role, preferably automotive.
• Proven Lean and Six Sigma implementations with measurable results.

Responsibilities

• Lead the industrial engineering department, set objectives, manage performance, and develop staff.
• Develop and implement plans for process improvement, efficiency, and cost reduction across production lines.
• Oversee design and optimization of manufacturing systems, workflows, and plant layouts.
• Promote Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and related operational excellence tools.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and safety/environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with senior management, R&D, quality control, and supply chain to align engineering with business goals.
• Manage budgets for the engineering department and projects.
• Oversee adoption of new technologies and automation in manufacturing.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of continuous learning and high performance.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Lean Six Sigma

Strategic planning

Analytical thinking

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Mentoring

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

CAD

Simulation tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the automotive manufacturing industry, is seeking an experienced Industrial Engineering Manager to oversee operations in Pretoria . This leadership role requires a strategic visionary with a deep understanding of automotive production processes, supply chain integration, and continuous improvement methodologies. You will be responsible for leading a team of industrial engineers, driving efficiency across all manufacturing lines, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety. This position offers a Hybrid work model, allowing for significant on-site engagement coupled with remote flexibility. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of automotive manufacturing in the Gauteng region and contribute to our client's global reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the industrial engineering department, including setting objectives, performance management, and professional development. Develop and implement strategic plans for process improvement, efficiency enhancement, and cost reduction across automotive production lines. Oversee the design and optimization of manufacturing systems, workflows, and plant layouts. Champion the adoption of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other advanced operational excellence tools and techniques. Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949) and relevant safety and environmental regulations. Collaborate with senior management, R&D, quality control, and supply chain teams to align engineering efforts with business objectives. Manage budgets for the industrial engineering department and associated projects. Oversee the implementation of new technologies and automation solutions in the manufacturing environment. Conduct regular performance reviews of manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for innovation. Mentor and develop junior engineering staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and high performance.

Requirements

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role, preferably within the automotive sector. Extensive knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes, supply chain dynamics, and quality management systems. Proven track record of successfully implementing Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, achieving measurable results. Strong leadership, team management, and motivational skills. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities. Proficiency in relevant software, including CAD, simulation tools, and project management software. Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage complex projects and multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Experience with hybrid work models and managing distributed teams is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly attractive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and a significant performance-based bonus structure. This role provides opportunities for international travel and professional development at leading industry conferences. The Hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility, balancing essential on-site responsibilities in Pretoria with remote workdays. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and employee growth within the vibrant Gauteng province.