Principal Industrial Engineer - Strategic Operations Design

Placements24

Randburg

Hybrid

ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,000,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Exceptional compensation

Competitive salary

Annual bonus opportunities

Comprehensive benefits

Unparalleled flexibility

Work from anywhere in SA

Cutting-edge training

Leadership programs

Influence global strategy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Industrial Engineer to lead strategic operations design initiatives. This fully remote role lets you drive large-scale improvements, network optimizations, and facility planning from anywhere in South Africa.

You will mentor teams, collaborate with global stakeholders, and translate complex business needs into actionable operational solutions, backed by 10+ years of industrial engineering leadership and a track record of transformation.

Qualifications

Master's or Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or related field.
10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering with strategic focus.
Proven track record delivering large-scale, complex transformations.
Experience leading cross-functional and remote/global teams.

Responsibilities

Lead strategic operational improvement initiatives across multiple units.
Design and optimize complex networks including supply chains and footprints.
Build business cases and implementation plans for major changes.
Use modeling, simulation, and data analytics for decision support.
Collaborate with senior leadership to align strategies with goals.
Monitor KPIs and mentor junior engineers on advanced methods.
Drive adoption of new models and technologies across the organization.

Skills

Strategic operations design

Leadership & stakeholder management

Advanced analytical thinking

Change management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering or OR

Tools

Simulation software

Optimization tools

Data analytics platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading multinational corporation, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Industrial Engineer to lead strategic operations design initiatives. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and implementing large-scale operational improvements, network optimizations, and strategic facility planning across the organization. This role requires a visionary leader with exceptional analytical skills, a deep understanding of industrial engineering principles, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. You will work with global teams to redefine operational strategies, drive significant efficiency gains, and shape the future of our client's business operations. We are looking for an individual who can translate complex business requirements into tangible, impactful operational solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of strategic operational improvement initiatives across multiple business units.
Design and optimize complex operational networks, including supply chains, manufacturing footprints, and distribution systems.
Conduct in-depth analysis of existing operations to identify opportunities for transformation and innovation.
Develop business cases and detailed implementation plans for major operational changes.
Utilize advanced modeling, simulation, and data analytics techniques to support strategic decision-making.
Collaborate with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external consultants to align operational strategies with business goals.
Oversee the deployment of new operational models and technologies, ensuring successful integration and adoption.
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of strategic initiatives.
Mentor and guide junior engineers and project teams in the application of advanced industrial engineering methods.
Stay at the forefront of industry trends and emerging technologies impacting operational strategy.

Requirements

Master's or Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on strategic operations design and transformation.
Proven track record of successfully leading and delivering large-scale, complex operational improvement projects.
Expertise in network design, capacity planning, process re-engineering, and supply chain optimization.
Advanced proficiency in simulation software, optimization tools, and data analytics platforms.
Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
Outstanding leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with experience presenting to executive levels.
Demonstrated ability to drive change and influence organizational direction.
Experience working effectively in a fully remote, global team environment.
PMP or other relevant project management certifications are a plus.

Benefits