Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 960,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund contributions

Professional growth opportunities

Modern manufacturing facilities

Performance incentives

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lean Manufacturing Engineer for its client in Sandton, Gauteng. The role focuses on implementing lean methodologies across manufacturing facilities, eliminating waste, and driving continuous improvement on-site.

You will work with production teams, supervisors and management to identify opportunities, design solutions, and ensure sustainable process improvements using Kaizen, 5S and value stream mapping. A hands-on approach is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3 years in industrial/manufacturing with lean focus.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and organizational skills.
• On-site in Sandton, able to lead cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead lean initiatives including Kaizen events, 5S, and value stream mapping.
• Analyze processes to remove waste across seven types (DOWNTIME).
• Develop SOPs incorporating lean principles.
• Conduct time studies and create standard work instructions.
• Collaborate with engineering and production to design layouts.
• Train and mentor staff on lean tools.
• Monitor KPIs related to lean implementation.
• Support TPM program deployment.
• Foster continuous improvement culture on the shop floor.
• Prepare management reports on lean progress and outcomes.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Kaizen events

5S

Value stream mapping

SOP development

Time studies

KPI monitoring

CAD software

Multi-project management

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Basic CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable manufacturing entity, is seeking a dedicated Lean Manufacturing Engineer to join their operational team in Sandton, Gauteng . This on-site role is pivotal in driving the implementation and continuous improvement of lean methodologies throughout the manufacturing facilities. The successful candidate will be instrumental in eliminating waste, improving workflow, and fostering a culture of operational excellence. You will work closely with production teams, supervisors, and management to identify opportunities, implement solutions, and ensure sustainable process improvements. This position requires a hands‑on approach and a deep commitment to lean principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate lean manufacturing initiatives, including Kaizen events, 5S implementations, and value stream mapping.
• Analyze production processes to identify and eliminate waste in areas such as overproduction, waiting time, transportation, inventory, motion, over-processing, and defects.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) that incorporate lean principles.
• Conduct time studies and develop standard work instructions to optimize efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to design efficient plant layouts and workflows.
• Train and mentor employees at all levels on lean concepts and tools.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to lean implementation and operational efficiency.
• Support the implementation of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) programs.
• Champion a continuous improvement culture across the manufacturing floor.
• Prepare reports on lean project progress, findings, and recommendations for management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in industrial engineering or manufacturing, with a strong focus on lean methodologies.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing lean tools and achieving measurable results in waste reduction and efficiency improvement.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification is required; Black Belt certification is a strong advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage teams at all levels.
• Must be able to work effectively on-site in Sandton .
• Proficiency in process analysis tools and basic CAD software.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Passion for continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, pension fund contributions, and opportunities for professional growth. Employees will work within a well-established company committed to quality and innovation. We provide a supportive work environment and access to modern manufacturing facilities. Additional benefits include performance incentives and generous paid time off. Join our team and drive lean transformation in Sandton .