Process Engineer

Kellanova; Springs; On-site; ZAR 30,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading snacks company is seeking a Process Engineer to enhance operational efficiency and maintain safety standards within their manufacturing plant. The role involves managing process variabilities, ensuring compliance with quality, and promoting a continuous improvement culture. Ideal candidates will have a background in Chemical Engineering and notable experience in process enhancements.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in process improvement within manufacturing.
• Knowledge in Six Sigma or LEAN methodologies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Identify and eliminate losses/waste in the process.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Support root cause analysis of incidents.

Skills

Planning

Organization

Attention to detail

Safety consciousness

Adaptability

Effective communication

Team contribution

Leadership

Education

Grade 12 or equivalent

Higher qualification in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Six Sigma

LEAN manufacturing

Job description

The Process Engineer is responsible for identifying and eliminating losses/waste, reducing Process Variability, and improving OEE across the Process by leveraging KWS methodologies, while maintaining high standards in Safety, Quality, and Food Safety. He/she acts as the Single Point of Contact for Management of Change within the ‘Process’ area, including operational training, trials, projects, and start-up management.

The incumbent is expected to carry out any lawful duties assigned. Limited travel may be required.

Working Relationships

• Reports to the Springs Manufacturing Manager
• Partners with all Plant / CSL Departments at all levels
• Leverages R&D and Central Engineering resources as needed
• Interacts with Raw Material suppliers
• Participates actively in KWS Centers of Excellence (mainly AM and/or CIPO)

Environmental, Health and Safety

• Promotes a Health and Safety culture using GEMBA, Safety 7 Tours, and Leader-led observation programs
• Ensures compliance with EHS policies and legislated requirements, proactively addressing concerns
• Assists in root cause analysis of incidents and implements risk mitigation actions

Quality and Food Safety

• Promotes a Food Safety & Quality culture, utilizing GEMBA & Golden 6 Tours
• Ensures adherence to Food Safety & Quality policies and legislated requirements
• Supports a ‘run-to-target’ strategy, reduces Process Variability, and participates in daily food reviews
• Collaborates with R&D on recipe upgrades and Process Control strategies, working with suppliers to reduce variability
• Performs root cause analysis of process incidents and hazards

People

• Fosters proactive communication across Operations and the plant
• Builds process capability related to loss elimination and Management of Change
• Coaches Relief Operators in troubleshooting and loss elimination
• Participates in KWS CoE teams and owns critical Daily Management Systems (DMS)
• Ensures follow-up on operational DMS and drives Autonomous Maintenance and Equipment Ownership
• Implements SmartFactory applications, including training and troubleshooting
• Facilitates benchmarking across facilities to share learnings

Manufacturing and Operational Efficiency

• Owns OEE improvement and loss elimination in the ‘Process’ area, analyzing trends and developing action plans
• Utilizes the full KWS toolbox for loss elimination
• Manages Capacity planning, updating quarterly based on actual performance and projects
• Owns the Kellanova Integrated Margin Management pipeline for the ‘Process’ area
• Acts as the Management of Change owner, providing input on design reviews, coordinating R&D/Engineering projects, and ensuring documentation and training updates

Preferred Education, Skills & Experience

• Grade 12 or equivalent, or higher qualification in Chemical Engineering or relevant field
• 3-5 years’ experience in process improvement within manufacturing

Skills

• Planning, organization, attention to detail, safety consciousness
• Adaptability, proactive action, continuous learning, stress management
• Effective communication and relationship-building
• Team contribution, leadership, knowledge sharing

Knowledge

• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Six Sigma or LEAN manufacturing knowledge
• Problem-solving skills

What’s Next?

After applying, your application will be reviewed by a recruiter. Please monitor your inbox for updates. Visit our How We Hire page for more insights.

About Kellanova

We aim to be the world’s leading snacks company with brands like Pringles, Cheez-It, and others. We value diversity and inclusion. Mars plans to acquire Kellanova by mid-2025, remaining separate until closing. Learn more at www.futureofsnacking.com.

About Kellanova AMEA

The AMEA region is a key growth market, offering extensive opportunities in the snacking industry. We are committed to investing in our people and expanding our reach within this diverse and dynamic region.