Lead Industrial Engineer - Lean Manufacturing

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Industrial Engineer focused on Lean Manufacturing in a remote-first setup. You will drive the lean strategy, mentor teams, and implement continuous improvement across global operations from your home office.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Industrial Engineering, 10+ years in the field including 5+ years leading lean initiatives, and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Strong communication and virtual leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in industrial engineering with 5+ years leading lean initiatives.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma required.
• Proven ability to lead remote, cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of the company's lean strategy remotely across sites.
• Drive CI initiatives implementing lean tools (VSM, 5S, Kaizen, Kanban).
• Mentor cross-functional teams on lean principles and practices.
• Analyze processes to identify waste and improve efficiency with data-driven plans.
• Facilitate remote Kaizen events and CI workshops.
• Develop and track KPIs for lean implementation and performance.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Leadership

Remote collaboration

VSM/Kaizen

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Kaizen tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the advanced manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Lead Industrial Engineer specializing in Lean Manufacturing to join their fully remote team. This is a critical leadership role focused on driving significant operational improvements through the application of lean principles across the organization. As a remote-first position, you will spearhead initiatives, mentor engineering teams, and collaborate virtually to embed lean methodologies, optimize workflows, and eliminate waste in all aspects of production and operations. We are looking for an expert with a deep passion for continuous improvement and a proven track record of successfully transforming manufacturing processes using lean tools and techniques. This role offers the unique opportunity to shape the operational excellence of a leading company from your home office, providing strategic direction and implementing best practices on a global scale. The ideal candidate is a natural leader, an excellent communicator, and a master of lean transformation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the company's lean manufacturing strategy across all operational sites, managing the process remotely.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by implementing lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), 5S, Kaizen events, Kanban, Poka-Yoke, and SMED.
• Mentor and coach cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and quality personnel, on lean principles and practices.
• Analyze production processes to identify waste, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement, developing data-driven action plans.
• Facilitate and lead remote Kaizen events and continuous improvement workshops.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to lean implementation and operational efficiency, reporting progress to senior management.
• Standardize processes and best practices across different facilities to ensure consistency and optimal performance.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and problem-solving throughout the organization.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging best practices in lean manufacturing and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with at least 5 years specifically focused on leading lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma is mandatory.
• Demonstrated expertise in facilitating VSM, Kaizen events, and implementing a wide range of lean tools and methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor teams, drive change, and achieve measurable results in a complex manufacturing environment.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels in a virtual setting.
• Experience with performance management systems and process automation is a plus.
• Must be highly self-motivated, organized, and capable of working effectively autonomously in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive salary and a comprehensive benefits package befitting a leadership role.
• As a fully remote position, you will enjoy unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• Benefits include premium health, dental, and vision insurance, generous paid time off, and a robust retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Significant investment in professional development, including advanced training and leadership programs, is provided.
• You will be part of an elite team driving operational excellence for a leading manufacturer.
• Our client fosters an environment of innovation and rewards outstanding performance.
• This is a unique opportunity to make a profound impact on manufacturing operations from your home office, with significant scope for career advancement within the organization.