Lead Industrial Process Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Structured development opportunities

Retirement plan

Generous leave and holidays

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Industrial Process Engineer for a premier beverage facility in Paarl, Western Cape. You will optimize industrial processes, lead automation projects, and mentor junior engineers to enhance product quality and efficiency.

Ideal candidates have 7+ years in industrial process engineering, a strong background in SPC, and hands-on experience with SCADA systems in a production environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum 7 years in industrial process engineering, ideally in beverages.
• Proven ability to analyze processes and implement solutions.
• Strong knowledge of SPC, process optimization, and QA standards.
• Experience with SCADA and instrumentation is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize production processes including fermentation, distillation, and bottling.
• Lead design and implementation of process improvements and new technologies.
• Develop and maintain process documentation (SOPs, flow diagrams, control strategies).
• Oversee automation and process control system implementations (SCADA).
• Troubleshoot issues, perform root-cause analysis, implement corrective actions.
• Ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance across operations.
• Collaborate with production, QC, and maintenance teams; mentor junior staff.
• Manage process engineering projects from conception to validation.
• Stay updated on beverage industry advancements.

Skills

Process optimization

Leadership

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering

Master's degree a plus

Tools

SCADA

Instrumentation

Process simulation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading producer of high-quality wine and spirits, is seeking an experienced and innovative Lead Industrial Process Engineer for their facility in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA. This role is crucial for optimizing the efficiency, safety, and quality of all industrial processes within the production facility. You will be responsible for analyzing existing processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing advanced engineering solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in industrial engineering principles, a deep understanding of process optimization techniques, and proven leadership capabilities. This position requires hands-on involvement in the operational environment and offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on product quality and operational excellence in a world-renowned beverage production setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze current industrial processes, including production, fermentation, distillation, and bottling, to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Design, develop, and implement process improvements and new technologies to enhance product quality, yield, and operational efficiency.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including flow diagrams, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and control strategies.
• Oversee the implementation of process control systems and automation technologies.
• Troubleshoot process-related issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with production, quality control, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless process operations.
• Lead and mentor junior process engineers and technical staff.
• Manage process engineering projects from conception through to implementation and validation.
• Stay informed about advancements in process engineering and relevant technologies within the beverage industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial process engineering, preferably within the food and beverage or spirits industry.
• Proven experience in process analysis, optimization, and implementation of engineering solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of process simulation, statistical process control (SPC), and quality management systems.
• Experience with process automation, SCADA systems, and instrumentation is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a production environment and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Proficiency in relevant engineering software and tools.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary of Paarl, Western Cape, ZA .
• Employees benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training and advanced certifications, are provided.
• A retirement savings plan with employer contributions is available.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays ensure a healthy work-life balance.
• Performance-based bonuses are awarded for significant contributions to process improvements and operational success.
• This role provides an excellent opportunity to impact the production of premium beverages.