Lead Industrial Engineer - Product Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level bonuses

Health, retirement and insurance

Relocation assistance to Stellenbosch

Career progression and leadership dev

Cutting-edge tech and facilities

Generous PTO and flexible work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Industrial Engineer in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to drive new product development from concept to launch. You will lead a team of engineers, collaborate with R&D and design, and ensure manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and quality throughout the lifecycle.

The role requires a Master’s in Industrial Engineering with 7+ years of experience, strong leadership, and expertise in DFM/DFA, lean, and Six Sigma.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or closely related field.
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• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial engineering focusing on NPI and product development.
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams.
• Strong understanding of DFM/DFA, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma.
• Experience with process design, simulation tools, and cost modeling.
• Excellent project management and a track record of launching new products.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and ERP systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Lead the industrial engineering aspects of new product development projects, from concept to launch.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to ensure new products are designed for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA).
• Develop detailed manufacturing process plans, including tooling, equipment, and facility requirements.
• Conduct thorough cost analysis for new products, identifying opportunities for cost reduction.
• Create and validate production line layouts, workflow simulations, and capacity planning.
• Develop and implement robust quality control plans and test procedures for new products.
• Oversee pilot production runs, troubleshoot issues, and refine processes before full-scale manufacturing.
• Manage and mentor a team of industrial engineers, fostering their professional development.
• Liaise with suppliers and vendors for equipment sourcing and technical specifications.
• Champion continuous improvement methodologies throughout the product development lifecycle.

Skills

Leadership

DFM/DFA

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Process simulation

CAD/CAM

ERP systems

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Arena

AnyLogic

CAD/CAM software

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned innovator in the product manufacturing sector based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead product development processes. This role requires a strategic thinker adept at integrating engineering principles with new product introductions to ensure manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and quality. The position involves a Hybrid work arrangement, allowing for collaboration both on-site in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, and remotely. You will lead a team of engineers, working closely with design, R&D, and production departments to translate concepts into commercially viable products. This is an exciting opportunity to influence product lifecycle from inception and drive innovation within a dynamic company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the industrial engineering aspects of new product development projects, from concept to launch.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to ensure new products are designed for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA).
• Develop detailed manufacturing process plans, including tooling, equipment, and facility requirements.
• Conduct thorough cost analysis for new products, identifying opportunities for cost reduction.
• Create and validate production line layouts, workflow simulations, and capacity planning.
• Develop and implement robust quality control plans and test procedures for new products.
• Oversee pilot production runs, troubleshoot issues, and refine processes before full-scale manufacturing.
• Manage and mentor a team of industrial engineers, fostering their professional development.
• Liaise with suppliers and vendors for equipment sourcing and technical specifications.
• Champion continuous improvement methodologies throughout the product development lifecycle.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on new product introduction (NPI) and product development.
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams.
• Strong understanding of DFM/DFA principles, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma.
• Expertise in process design, simulation (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic), and cost modeling.
• Excellent project management skills, with a track record of successfully launching new products.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and ERP systems.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a Hybrid work environment and collaborate effectively across functions in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with executive-level bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities.
• A stimulating work environment that encourages innovation and creativity.
• Generous paid time off and flexible working arrangements.
• Stock options or profit-sharing plans may be available.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Stellenbosch, Western Cape.