Operations Lead, Manufacturing

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Lead, Manufacturing to oversee daily manufacturing activities at the Nelspruit facility. You will drive production scheduling, ensure quality and safety, and lead a team to achieve targets.

The role emphasizes Lean practices, continuous improvement, inventory oversight, and cross‑functional collaboration with QA, maintenance and supply chain. Hybrid work is available, with on‑site presence required for core operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and other process improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of production planning, quality control, and safety regulations in a manufacturing setting.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, workflow, and resource allocation.
• Ensure that production targets are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.
• Lead, train, and motivate production teams to achieve optimal performance and foster a positive work environment.
• Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean Manufacturing) to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Oversee inventory management of raw materials and finished goods within the production area.
• Collaborate with quality control, maintenance, and supply chain departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Investigate and resolve production issues, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Production planning

Quality control

Safety regulations

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Team motivation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and hands‑on Operations Lead, Manufacturing to join their production facility in Nelspruit . This critical role will oversee the daily operations of the manufacturing floor, ensuring efficient production, adherence to quality standards, and the safety of all personnel. You will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement initiatives, managing production schedules, and leading a team of production staff. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in manufacturing operations, excellent leadership abilities, and a commitment to optimizing processes within a dynamic production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, workflow, and resource allocation.
• Ensure that production targets are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.
• Lead, train, and motivate production teams to achieve optimal performance and foster a positive work environment.
• Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean Manufacturing) to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Oversee inventory management of raw materials and finished goods within the production area.
• Collaborate with quality control, maintenance, and supply chain departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Investigate and resolve production issues, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and other process improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of production planning, quality control, and safety regulations in a manufacturing setting.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in manufacturing excellence.
• Hybrid work arrangement allowing for on-site and some remote flexibility.
• A dynamic and results-oriented work culture.
• Employee assistance programs.