Process Improvement Engineer - Manufacturing Excellence

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and performanceBonа

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development courses and e

Paid annual leave and holidays

Collaborative team environment

Access to modern facilities and tech

Employee wellness programs

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Improvement Engineer for a Durban-based manufacturing environment. The role focuses on analyzing, redesigning, and implementing improvements to production processes to boost efficiency and product quality.

You will collaborate with production teams, QA, and engineering to drive cost-effective enhancements and sustain continuous improvement across the plant. Hybrid work arrangements may be available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in process improvement or industrial engineering in manufacturing.
• Solid knowledge of Lean Manufacturing tools (5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping).
• Six Sigma experience is desirable.
• Proficiency in data analysis and software (Excel, Minitab, Tableau).

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify efficiency, quality, safety and cost improvements.
• Lead process improvement projects using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Create and document new SOPs and work instructions.
• Collaborate with production and engineering teams to implement changes and train staff.
• Monitor process performance with data analysis and report key metrics.
• Support equipment upgrades and new technology integration with engineering.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Contribute to annual plant improvement plans.
• Ensure changes comply with industry regulations and safety standards.

Skills

Problem-solving

Lean Manufacturing

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Tableau

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the food and beverage manufacturing sector in Durban , is seeking a dedicated Process Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence and efficiency. This role is crucial for analyzing, redesigning, and implementing improvements to manufacturing processes, ensuring optimal resource utilization, product quality, and cost-effectiveness. The successful candidate will work closely with production teams, quality assurance, and engineering departments to identify and execute initiatives that enhance overall plant performance. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer passionate about continuous improvement and seeking to make a tangible impact in a reputable organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, quality, safety, and cost reduction.
• Develop and implement process improvement projects using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Design and document new standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
• Collaborate with production supervisors and operators to implement process changes and provide necessary training.
• Monitor process performance using statistical analysis and data collection, reporting on key metrics.
• Work with the engineering team on equipment upgrades and new technology integration.
• Conduct root cause analysis for production issues and implement corrective actions.
• Contribute to the development of annual improvement plans for the manufacturing department.
• Ensure all process changes comply with industry regulations and safety standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process improvement or industrial engineering roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Solid understanding and practical experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping).
• Experience with Six Sigma methodologies is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software (e.g., Excel, Minitab, Tableau).
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Familiarity with process simulation software is a plus.
• Must be located in or able to commute to Durban regularly, with potential for hybrid work arrangements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development courses and certifications.
• Paid annual leave and company holidays.
• Collaborative team environment with experienced professionals.
• Access to modern manufacturing facilities and technologies.
• Employee wellness programs and support services.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing company.