Process Engineer

Network Contracting; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Network Contracting in Gauteng Soweto is seeking a Process Engineer to monitor, analyse and optimise manufacturing processes across the plant, driving efficiency, quality and throughput. The role requires 3–5 years in process engineering within continuous manufacturing; strong data analytics, Lean/Six Sigma, and experience with ERP/MIS systems.

You will lead improvement projects, develop SOPs, and support capital upgrades.

Qualifications

• BEng or BTech in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• Minimum 3–5 years' experience as a Process Engineer in a continuous manufacturing environment.
• Experience in paper, pulp, packaging, FMCG, chemical, or related manufacturing industries is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of process optimisation, manufacturing principles, and production systems.
• Experience analysing production data and implementing process improvements.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with ERP or manufacturing systems is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and optimise manufacturing processes to maximise efficiency, productivity, and product quality.
• Analyse production data and identify opportunities to improve process capability and reduce variability.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on waste reduction, cost savings, energy efficiency, and increased throughput.
• Investigate process deviations and production losses using Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures and process documentation.
• Support new product introductions, process trials, and production improvements.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and Engineering teams to improve equipment reliability and process performance.
• Monitor process KPIs and prepare technical reports with recommendations for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, environmental regulations, and health and safety requirements.
• Participate in capital projects, equipment upgrades, commissioning, and plant optimisation initiatives.
• Conduct process capability studies and statistical analysis to support operational decision-making.
• Train production teams on process improvements and best operating practices.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Troubleshooting

Excel

ERP systems

Education

BEng/BTech in Chemical Engineering

Process Engineering

Industrial Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and optimise manufacturing processes to maximise efficiency, productivity, and product quality.


• Analyse production data and identify opportunities to improve process capability and reduce variability.


• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on waste reduction, cost savings, energy efficiency, and increased throughput.


• Investigate process deviations and production losses using Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement sustainable corrective actions.


• Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures and process documentation.


• Support new product introductions, process trials, and production improvements.


• Collaborate with Maintenance and Engineering teams to improve equipment reliability and process performance.


• Monitor process KPIs and prepare technical reports with recommendations for improvement.


• Ensure compliance with quality standards, environmental regulations, and health and safety requirements.


• Participate in capital projects, equipment upgrades, commissioning, and plant optimisation initiatives.


• Conduct process capability studies and statistical analysis to support operational decision-making.


• Train production teams on process improvements and best operating practices.

Minimum Requirements

• BEng or BTech in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.


• Minimum 3–5 years' experience as a Process Engineer within a continuous manufacturing environment.


• Experience within the paper, pulp, packaging, FMCG, chemical, or related manufacturing industries will be highly advantageous.


• Strong understanding of process optimisation, manufacturing principles, and production systems.


• Experience analysing production data and implementing process improvements.


• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.


• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.


• Experience with ERP or manufacturing systems will be advantageous.

Advantageous Experience

• Exposure to paper converting or paper production processes.


• Knowledge of process control systems, instrumentation, and automation.


• Experience with statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis.


• Familiarity with ISO Quality, Environmental, and Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems.


• Experience participating in capital projects and equipment commissioning.