Operations Lead - Manufacturing

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual bonuses

Career progression

On-site facilities

Supportive team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Operations Lead for our Rustenburg production facility. The role focuses on efficient day-to-day operations, driving productivity, ensuring quality, and maintaining a safe workplace.

The ideal candidate will lead the production team and implement lean principles to meet targets in a high-demand environment. You will collaborate with engineering, quality, and supply chain to optimize workflows, manage budgets, and drive continuous improvement while maintaining

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Management, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in operations management within manufacturing.
• Proven experience in leading and managing production teams.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control systems, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental regulations in manufacturing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with production planning and scheduling software.
• Ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Data analysis and reporting for production metrics.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet targets efficiently and safely.
• Mentor and lead the production team with clear direction and feedback.
• Enforce stringent quality control throughout the process.
• Develop and execute production schedules; optimize resources.
• Drive continuous improvement with lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Maintain and coordinate maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with supply chain to ensure timely procurement of materials.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Data analysis

Budgeting

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field

Tools

Production planning software

Scheduling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturing firm, is seeking an experienced and proactive Operations Lead to manage and optimize their production facility in Rustenburg . This critical role is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective day-to-day operations of the plant, driving productivity, maintaining quality standards, and fostering a safe working environment. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement. You will play a key role in managing the production team, overseeing resource allocation, and implementing operational strategies to meet production targets. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned operations professional to take on significant responsibility and contribute to the success of a reputable company. Your expertise in lean manufacturing principles and operational excellence will be vital in this role. You will work closely with various departments to ensure smooth workflow and optimal output. We are looking for a hands-on leader who can inspire their team and deliver consistent results in a demanding industrial setting. This role is essential for maintaining our client's competitive edge in the manufacturing sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets are met efficiently and safely.
• Manage and mentor the production team, providing clear direction, training, and performance feedback.
• Implement and enforce stringent quality control measures throughout the production process.
• Develop and execute production schedules, optimizing resource allocation (materials, equipment, personnel).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including lean manufacturing principles, to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the facility.
• Maintain and manage production equipment, coordinating maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics teams to ensure timely procurement of materials and delivery of finished goods.
• Monitor production performance, analyzing data to identify areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork among the production staff.
• Manage inventory levels for raw materials and finished products, optimizing stock rotation.
• Develop and manage the plant's operational budget, ensuring cost control and financial efficiency.
• Troubleshoot production issues, implementing effective solutions to maintain workflow.
• Liaise with engineering and quality assurance departments on process improvements and product development.
• Promote employee engagement and professional development within the operations team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in leading and managing production teams.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control systems, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental regulations in a manufacturing setting.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with production planning and scheduling software.
• Ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting for production metrics.
• Strong understanding of machinery maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Experience working in Rustenburg or a similar industrial area is advantageous.
• Commitment to fostering a safe and productive work environment.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and annual bonuses.
• The company provides a structured career progression path and opportunities for further training and development within the manufacturing sector.
• Employees have access to on-site facilities and a supportive team environment.
• This role offers the chance to lead critical operations in a well-established manufacturing plant.