Process Design Engineer - Automotive Sector

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive private healthcare plan

Company-sponsored retirement savings

Opportunities for advanced training

Generous paid time off

Performance bonuses tied to project

Collaborative work environment in Gaut

Potential for career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Process Design Engineer for our Pretoria-based automotive components manufacturer. You will develop and refine manufacturing processes across the full lifecycle, from concept to implementation and continuous improvement, collaborating with R&D, QA, and production teams.

The role requires a mechanical/industrial engineering background with 5+ years in process design, proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks/AutoCAD) and simulation tools (Arena/AnyLogic), and a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in process design/development, automotive preferred.
• Proficiency with CAD and process simulation tools.
• Knowledge of IATF 16949 is advantageous.
• Reside in or willing to commute to Pretoria.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate manufacturing processes for automotive components.
• Model process flows with CAD and simulation tools to optimize designs.
• Collaborate with product design, tooling, and manufacturing for integration.
• Create detailed process docs: P&IDs, flow charts, work instructions.
• Analyze process performance data for efficiency, yield, cost reductions.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing to reduce waste.
• Support installation and validation of new production equipment.
• Troubleshoot complex process-related issues during production.
• Stay current with manufacturing tech and materials.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives in Pretoria.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Related engineering discipline

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Arena

AnyLogic

8D

FMEA

Job description

About the RoleOur client, a significant manufacturer within the automotive supply chain based in Pretoria , is seeking an innovative Process Design Engineer. This role is essential for developing and refining the manufacturing processes that underpin the production of critical automotive components. You will be involved in the entire lifecycle of process development, from conceptualization and simulation to implementation and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with R&D, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure processes are efficient, cost-effective, and meet the stringent quality standards of the automotive industry. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work for certain tasks. This role is integral to maintaining our client's competitive edge in the vibrant Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate new manufacturing processes for automotive components, ensuring alignment with product specifications and quality requirements.
• Utilize CAD and simulation software to model process flows, identify potential issues, and optimize designs before physical implementation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product design, tooling, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless process integration.
• Develop detailed process documentation, including P&IDs, flow charts, and work instructions for manufacturing operators.
• Analyze process performance data to identify opportunities for improvement in efficiency, yield, and cost reduction.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing principles and methodologies to streamline operations and eliminate waste.
• Support the installation, commissioning, and validation of new production equipment and tooling.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues encountered during production runs.
• Stay current with advancements in manufacturing technologies and materials relevant to the automotive sector.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives and capital expenditure justifications for process-related projects in Pretoria .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process design and development, preferably within the automotive manufacturing industry.
• Proficiency in using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and process simulation tools (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing principles, particularly in metal forming, assembly, or machining processes.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing techniques and problem-solving tools (e.g., 8D, FMEA).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively in a team environment and interacting with stakeholders across different departments.
• Ability to adapt to a hybrid work model, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities effectively.
• Knowledge of automotive industry standards and quality management systems (e.g., IATF 16949) is advantageous.
• Reside within or be willing to commute to Pretoria .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Comprehensive private healthcare plan.
• Company-sponsored retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for advanced training and certifications.
• Generous paid time off.
• Performance bonuses tied to project success.
• A collaborative work environment focused on innovation in Gauteng .
• Potential for career advancement within a leading automotive supplier.