Process Improvement Engineer - FMCG Sector

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based incentives

Training & career progression

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Improvement Engineer for its Mossel Bay FMCG facility. You will apply lean methods to optimize production lines, packaging, and material flow, driving waste reduction and quality improvements.

Collaborate with production and quality teams to implement sustainable improvements and ensure safety compliance. The ideal candidate has a 3–5 year track record in process improvement within manufacturing, with strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel/Minitab.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in process improvement or industrial engineering in FMCG/manufacturing.
• Lean principles and tools experience must have been demonstrated.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Proficient in data analysis and visualization tools such as Excel and Minitab.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify efficiency, cost, and quality improvements.
• Design and implement process changes using lean tools (VSM, 5S, Kaizen).
• Perform time studies and data analysis to set benchmarks and find bottlenecks.
• Develop SOPs and work instructions for optimized processes.
• Collaborate with production to sustain process improvements and ensure safety compliance.
• Support quality by addressing root causes of defects and corrective actions.
• Evaluate new manufacturing technologies and equipment for potential adoption.
• Monitor KPIs related to output, waste reduction, and efficiency.
• Train staff on new procedures and best practices.
• Participate in cross-functional teams for new product introductions and process validation.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Data analysis

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturer, is seeking a diligent and innovative Process Improvement Engineer for their facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role is dedicated to enhancing operational efficiency, reducing waste, and improving product quality throughout the manufacturing process. You will be instrumental in applying lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies to optimize production lines, packaging processes, and material handling. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate effectively with production and quality teams. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a well-established company in a beautiful coastal region.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for improvement in efficiency, cost, and quality.
• Design and implement process changes using lean manufacturing tools (e.g., VSM, 5S, Kaizen).
• Conduct time studies and data analysis to establish performance benchmarks and identify bottlenecks.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for optimized processes.
• Collaborate with the production team to ensure the effective implementation and sustainability of process improvements.
• Support quality control initiatives by identifying root causes of defects and implementing corrective actions.
• Assist in the evaluation and implementation of new manufacturing technologies and equipment.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production output, waste reduction, and efficiency.
• Ensure all implemented processes comply with safety and environmental regulations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape .
• Train production staff on new procedures and best practices for process adherence.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to support new product introductions and process validation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in process improvement or industrial engineering within the FMCG or a similar manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience applying lean manufacturing principles and tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage with staff at all levels.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000) is a plus.
• Experience with statistical process control (SPC) techniques.
• Understanding of production scheduling and material flow.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance-based incentives. They are committed to employee development, offering opportunities for training, further education, and career progression within the organization. Employees benefit from generous annual leave and a supportive work-life balance. This role is based in our modern facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , a scenic coastal town offering a desirable lifestyle.