Lead Industrial Engineer - Strategic Operations

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,916,000 - 2,874,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead strategic operations initiatives in a fully remote capacity. You will analyze complex challenges, architect scalable solutions, and mentor engineering teams to deliver measurable business value.

Ideal candidates have a Master’s or PhD in Industrial Engineering with 10+ years in the field, including leadership roles, and proven impact through operations research, simulation, and advanced modeling.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in industrial engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record leading strategic operational initiatives with significant business impact.
• Expertise in operations research, simulation, statistical analysis, and advanced modeling.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans for operational efficiency, capacity planning, and resource optimization across the enterprise.
• Lead and mentor a team of industrial engineers in analysis, design, and implementation of complex improvements.
• Utilize advanced data modeling and simulation techniques to assess strategic options and drive informed decisions.

Skills

Leadership

Operations research

Simulation

Advanced modeling

Lean Six Sigma

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned and forward-thinking Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead strategic operations initiatives within a fully remote capacity. This pivotal role requires a leader adept at analyzing complex operational challenges and architecting innovative, scalable solutions that drive significant business value. You will leverage your deep expertise in industrial engineering principles, advanced analytics, and change management to guide critical projects and mentor engineering teams. This is an exceptional opportunity for a remote-based leader to influence the strategic direction of operations and foster a culture of excellence across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans for operational efficiency, capacity planning, and resource optimization across the enterprise.
• Lead and mentor a team of industrial engineers in the analysis, design, and implementation of complex operational improvements.
• Utilize advanced data modeling and simulation techniques to assess strategic options and drive informed decision-making.
• Champion the adoption of Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies across all relevant functions.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align operational strategies with overarching business objectives.
• Drive innovation by identifying and implementing cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to enhance operational performance.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully leading strategic operational initiatives and driving significant business impact.
• Expertise in operations research , simulation, statistical analysis, and advanced modeling tools.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, essential for remote leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate complex challenges into actionable plans.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including substantial bonuses and equity options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Significant paid time off and flexible remote work arrangements.
• Professional development budget and opportunities for executive coaching.
• A highly influential role shaping the future of operations for a leading organization.