Process Engineer / Production Manager

University of Fort Hare; Ballito; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established business in Ballito is seeking an experienced Process Engineer / Production Manager. You will lead and optimise manufacturing operations, ensuring efficiency and quality while managing a dedicated team. The ideal candidate has a degree in Engineering and over three years of relevant experience in a production setting. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are crucial for success in this hands-on role.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a production or manufacturing role.
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Analyse manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies.
• Oversee daily factory operations to ensure production goals.

Skills

Process optimisation

Team leadership

Problem-solving

Mechanical production equipment knowledge

Education

Degree or Diploma in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Overview

Ballito. Are you a skilled production professional with a passion for process optimisation and team leadership? A well-established business is looking for an experienced Process Engineer / Production Manager to take charge of their dynamic manufacturing operations.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you'll be responsible for driving efficiency, ensuring quality, and leading a team to excellence in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities

Process Engineering

• Analyse existing manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement
• Balance production lines, eliminate bottlenecks, and enhance workflow
• Develop and maintain SOPs for all production stages
• Design and refine workflows to reduce waste, increase output, and ensure consistent product quality
• Collaborate with product designers to assess manufacturability of new ranges
• Monitor mechanical equipment (e.g., litho printing machines, die cutters, platens, conveyors) and coordinate maintenance or upgrades
• Evaluate raw materials and suggest process adjustments to enhance efficiency and product quality

Production Management

• Oversee daily factory operations to ensure production goals are met
• Manage production schedules, resource allocation, and inventory coordination
• Lead and supervise production teams, including line leaders, operators, and general workers
• Enforce health and safety standards and quality assurance protocols
• Motivate and train staff; conduct performance reviews and promote continuous improvement
• Coordinate cross-functionally with procurement, logistics, and warehousing to maintain seamless operations

What We7re Looking For

• Degree or Diploma in Industrial, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)
• 3+ years7 experience in a production or manufacturing role (experience in print or packaging is a plus)
• Strong knowledge of mechanical production equipment
• Proven track record in balancing production lines and removing bottlenecks
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a proactive, results-driven mindset
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement methodologies (advantageous)
• Strong leadership and communication skills