Lead Manufacturing Process Engineer – Lean & NPI Leader

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance bonus

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24, Stellenbosch, is seeking a Lead Manufacturing Process Engineer to optimize and innovate manufacturing processes on-site. You will lead a team of process engineers, mentor junior staff, and drive continuous improvement across production lines to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

The role requires deep expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, process simulation, and NPI with scale-up experience.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing process engineering with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies.
• Experience with new product introduction (NPI) and process scale-up.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and manufacturing regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, throughput, and product quality.
• Develop and implement lean manufacturing principles and methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen) across production lines.
• Manage and mentor a team of process engineers, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Conduct process capability studies, root cause analysis, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Utilize process simulation tools and statistical analysis to identify and resolve production challenges.
• Collaborate with R&D and product development teams on new product introductions and process scale-up.
• Oversee the implementation of new manufacturing technologies and equipment.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Track and report on key process performance indicators (KPIs) and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Process optimization

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial/Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Arena

AnyLogic

Minitab

Job description

Placements24, Stellenbosch, is seeking a Lead Manufacturing Process Engineer to optimize and innovate manufacturing processes on-site. You will lead a team of process engineers, mentor junior staff, and drive continuous improvement across production lines to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

The role requires deep expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, process simulation, and NPI with scale-up experience.