Process Improvement Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking a Process Improvement Engineer to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and lead continuous improvement across all production lines. The role focuses on applying industrial engineering principles to analyze processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement innovative solutions in a hybrid on-site setting.

You will collaborate with production, quality, and management to boost productivity and cost-effectiveness, with opportunities to work on projects requiring

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in process improvement or industrial engineering in manufacturing.
• Solid knowledge of Lean Manufacturing (5S, Kaizen, VSM) and Six Sigma.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools (Excel, Minitab).
• CAD familiarity for layout design is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify efficiency, quality, and safety improvements.
• Develop and implement process improvements using Lean and Six Sigma methods.
• Collect and analyze data on production output, cycle times, and resource use.
• Design and document new or modified process flows, layouts, and work instructions.
• Conduct time and motion studies to optimize workflows and ergonomics.
• Lead cross-functional teams on process improvement projects and ensure timely delivery.
• Train production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Monitor performance of changes and adjust as needed.
• Prepare reports and presentations on improvement initiatives and outcomes.
• Support new technologies and automation within the production environment.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Data analysis

Communication

Cross-functional teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Excel

Minitab

CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing industrial manufacturing company located in Port Elizabeth , is actively seeking a motivated Process Improvement Engineer. This role is integral to enhancing operational efficiency, reducing waste, and driving continuous improvement across all production lines. The successful candidate will apply industrial engineering principles to analyze existing processes, identify bottlenecks, and develop innovative solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity for an engineer with a passion for problem-solving and optimizing complex systems. While the role primarily involves on-site work to interact directly with operations and implement changes, there is scope for hybrid arrangements on specific project phases and reporting tasks, allowing for flexibility. You will collaborate closely with production, quality, and management teams to achieve tangible improvements in productivity and cost-effectiveness within the Port Elizabeth facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Develop and implement process improvements using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Collect and analyze data related to production output, cycle times, and resource utilization.
• Design and document new or modified process flows, equipment layouts, and work instructions.
• Conduct time and motion studies to optimize workflows and improve ergonomics.
• Lead cross-functional teams on specific process improvement projects, ensuring timely and successful completion.
• Train production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Monitor the performance of implemented changes and make adjustments as necessary.
• Prepare reports and presentations on process improvement initiatives and their outcomes.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and automation solutions within the production environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in a process improvement or industrial engineering role, preferably within manufacturing.
• Solid understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping) and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).
• Experience with process simulation software is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a results-oriented approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with CAD software for layout design is beneficial.
• Must be able to work effectively in the Port Elizabeth area with hybrid flexibility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Employees are eligible for an annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions are provided.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave, is offered.
• Opportunities for professional development, including relevant training courses and certifications, are encouraged and supported.
• The company fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment in Port Elizabeth , with a focus on employee well-being and growth.