Lead Industrial Engineer - Operations Optimization

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Lead Industrial Engineer to head operations optimization within a major FMCG facility. The role focuses on analyzing complex production systems, eliminating bottlenecks, and implementing robust improvements to boost productivity and profitability.

The ideal candidate has extensive manufacturing experience, deep Lean Six Sigma expertise, and a passion for excellence. You will mentor engineers, lead cross-functional projects, and help define operational strategies in

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in industrial engineering, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles (Green Belt or Black Belt certification highly preferred).
• Proven experience in optimizing high-volume production environments, ideally within the FMCG sector.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., AnyLogic, Simul8) and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Excel).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong project management capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Must be willing to work a hybrid schedule, with regular presence required at the Durban facility.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of improved manufacturing processes and systems.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of production lines, identifying bottlenecks, waste, and opportunities for efficiency gains.
• Develop and manage process improvement projects from conception to completion, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing tools and methodologies such as 5S, VSM, Kaizen events, and SMED.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of industrial engineers and technicians.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor operational performance and identify trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality assurance, supply chain, and R&D to ensure seamless integration of process changes.
• Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and training materials for new and modified processes.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and equipment to enhance production capabilities.
• Ensure all engineering activities adhere to safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Leadership

AnyLogic

Simul8

Minitab

Excel

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

AnyLogic

Simul8

Minitab

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, is looking for a highly skilled Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead operations optimization initiatives at their Durban facility. This senior position demands a forward-thinking individual capable of analyzing complex production systems, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing robust solutions to drive productivity and profitability. You will lead a dedicated team of engineers, mentor junior members, and work collaboratively with operations management to achieve strategic goals. This role is crucial for maintaining our client's competitive edge in the KwaZulu-Natal market. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in manufacturing environments, a strong grasp of Lean Six Sigma principles, and a passion for excellence. This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a leadership role and shape operational strategies within a thriving industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of improved manufacturing processes and systems.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of production lines, identifying bottlenecks, waste, and opportunities for efficiency gains.
• Develop and manage process improvement projects from conception to completion, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing tools and methodologies such as 5S, VSM, Kaizen events, and SMED.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of industrial engineers and technicians.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor operational performance and identify trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality assurance, supply chain, and R&D to ensure seamless integration of process changes.
• Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and training materials for new and modified processes.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and equipment to enhance production capabilities.
• Ensure all engineering activities adhere to safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in industrial engineering, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles (Green Belt or Black Belt certification highly preferred).
• Proven experience in optimizing high-volume production environments, ideally within the FMCG sector.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., AnyLogic, Simul8) and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Excel).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong project management capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Must be willing to work a hybrid schedule, with regular presence required at the Durban facility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including an annual bonus, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a generous provident fund contribution.
• We provide extensive opportunities for professional development, including access to advanced training programs and certifications.
• Employees enjoy a structured leave policy, an on-site cafeteria, and access to corporate wellness initiatives.
• This position offers a challenging yet rewarding career path in the vibrant city of Durban.