Lead Industrial Engineer - Digital Transformation (Remote)

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Lead Industrial Engineer to drive digital transformation across global operations. This remote, senior role demands leadership to modernize manufacturing processes with IoT, AI/ML, and data analytics.

You will develop roadmaps, manage budgets, and mentor a team of engineers while collaborating with IT and operations to deliver measurable efficiency gains across a remote-first organization.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering with a focus on digital transformation and automation.
• Experience leading large-scale digital transformation projects in manufacturing or operations.
• In-depth knowledge of Industry 4.0, IoT, AI/ML, and data analytics.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and cross-functional teams.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with cloud platforms and data integration strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategy and implementation of digital transformation projects within industrial operations.
• Evaluate and integrate technologies such as IoT, AI/ML, and robotic process automation into workflows.
• Develop and manage project roadmaps, timelines, and budgets for digital initiatives.
• Collaborate with IT, engineering, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of digital solutions.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and drive data-informed decisions for digital enhancements.
• Develop and implement robust change management strategies for new technologies and processes.
• Mentor and guide a team of industrial engineers toward excellence.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for digital transformation and report impact.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and Industry 4.0 best practices.

Skills

Digital transformation

Industrial Engineering

Leadership

Stakeholder management

IoT

AI/ML

Data analytics

Project management

Remote collaboration

Cloud platforms

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

PhD (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a visionary Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead digital transformation initiatives within their operations, operating in a fully remote capacity. This senior position is integral to modernizing our manufacturing and operational processes through the adoption of cutting‑edge digital technologies, automation, and data analytics. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to lead complex projects, influence stakeholders, and drive significant operational improvements. Working remotely, you will collaborate with global teams, leveraging advanced digital collaboration platforms to innovate and execute strategy. This is a unique chance to shape the future of industrial engineering and operational efficiency in a digitally advanced, remote‑first environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategy and implementation of digital transformation projects within industrial operations.
• Evaluate and integrate advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, machine learning, and robotic process automation into operational workflows.
• Develop and manage project roadmaps, timelines, and budgets for digital initiatives.
• Collaborate with IT, engineering, and operational teams to ensure seamless integration of digital solutions.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, predict outcomes, and drive data‑informed decision‑making for digital enhancements.
• Develop and implement robust change management strategies to ensure successful adoption of new technologies and processes.
• Mentor and guide a team of industrial engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for digital transformation efforts, reporting on progress and impact.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry best practices in digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• PhD is a plus.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering with a strong focus on digital transformation and automation.
• Demonstrated experience leading large‑scale digital transformation projects in manufacturing or operations.
• In‑depth knowledge of Industry 4.0 concepts, IoT, AI/ML, and advanced data analytics.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and cross‑functional teams.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with cloud platforms and data integration strategies.
• Strong understanding of operational excellence frameworks and methodologies.
• Proficiency in simulation and modeling tools for digital process design.
• Ability to thrive in a remote, collaborative, and fast‑paced environment.

Benefits

• This high‑impact role offers a highly competitive executive‑level salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of a fully remote position with the ability to work from anywhere within South Africa .
• Benefits include top‑tier medical, dental, and vision insurance, an attractive pension scheme, generous stock options, and substantial professional development allowances.
• Our client invests heavily in employee growth, offering opportunities for advanced training, conference attendance, and leadership development programs.
• You will be part of an innovative and future‑focused organization.