Lead Production Systems Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Bonuses

Advanced training

Paid time off

State-of-the-art facilities

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Production Systems Engineer to design, implement, and optimize production systems at our Pietermaritzburg site. You will drive lean initiatives, Six Sigma projects, and data-driven improvements across manufacturing processes.

Ideal candidates bring 8+ years in industrial engineering with leadership experience, plus expertise in automation and high-volume environments. Based in Pietermaritzburg or willing to relocate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 8+ years in industrial engineering with at least 3 in leadership roles.
• Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt desirable).
• Experience designing and implementing complex production systems and automation.
• Automotive/high-volume manufacturing experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of production systems and processes.
• Implement lean manufacturing initiatives and Six Sigma projects to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Analyze production data for trends, root causes, and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and maintain SOPs, flowcharts, and performance metrics.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Communication

Team motivation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Statistical software

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative manufacturing leader, is looking for a highly skilled Lead Production Systems Engineer to join their operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This pivotal role involves overseeing the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of production systems that drive operational excellence. The Lead Production Systems Engineer will be responsible for enhancing productivity, optimizing workflows, and ensuring the integration of advanced technologies within the manufacturing facilities. This position demands a strategic thinker with a robust understanding of industrial engineering principles and a passion for driving efficiency and quality. The successful candidate will lead a team of engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and best practice. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the production landscape of a key player in the South African industrial sector and contribute to their sustained success. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a deep commitment to achieving operational targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of production systems and manufacturing processes.
• Implement and manage lean manufacturing initiatives and Six Sigma projects to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Analyze production data to identify performance trends, root causes of issues, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive process documentation, including SOPs, flowcharts, and performance metrics.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and quality teams to ensure the smooth functioning and continuous improvement of production lines.
• Oversee the integration of new technologies and automation solutions into the production environment.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of production engineers and technicians.
• Conduct training sessions for production staff on new processes, equipment, and best practices.
• Manage capital expenditure projects related to production system upgrades and expansions.
• Ensure all processes comply with safety, health, and environmental standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role within manufacturing.
• Demonstrated expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification highly desirable), and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing complex production systems and automation.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools, statistical software, and process simulation software.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of successfully delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively manage and motivate a team.
• Experience working in the automotive or similar high-volume manufacturing industry is a plus.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Access to state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and technologies.
• A supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and career progression.