Process Improvement Specialist

Pele Energy Group; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the renewable energy sector is seeking a Process Improvement Specialist to enhance operational efficiency and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The role involves analyzing processes, implementing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and ensuring compliance with ISO standards. Ideal candidates will have 5-7 years of experience and a strong background in quality management within the renewable energy or utilities sectors.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years in process improvement, quality management, or operational efficiency roles.
• Proven experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen methodologies.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all business units.
• Analyze existing processes and implement solutions to streamline workflows.
• Ensure compliance with ISO standards and enhance operational efficiency.

Skills

Process Analysis and Design

Quality Management Systems

Improvement Methodologies

Data Analysis and Problem-Solving

Project Management

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Software Proficiency

Education

Undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Quality Management, or Operations Management

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Process Improvement Specialist to join the Operations team.

The individual will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement initiatives across all business units in the organization, ensuring adherence to ISO standards and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

The role involves analyzing existing processes, identifying areas for optimization, and implementing solutions that streamline workflows, reduce waste, and improve product and service quality.

Requirements

1. Process Analysis and Assessment

• Conduct analyses of current business processes in IPP operations, asset management, and solar plant construction to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Map and document processes using flowcharts, process mapping software, and other relevant tools.

1. Process Optimisation & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements aligned with ISO standards, ISO Asset Management, and best practices in renewable energy and infrastructure projects.
• Develop and implement Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen-based improvement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
• Standardise asset management, procurement, and maintenance processes to optimise performance across the organisation.
• Ensure that improvements align with NERSA, Eskom Grid Code, SANS, and other industry regulations.

1. Data Collection, Performance Monitoring, and Reporting

• Collect and analyse operational data to track efficiency, identify trends, and validate improvements.
• Define and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to solar plant efficiency, downtime reduction, asset performance, and maintenance schedules.
• Utilise statistical tools and data-driven decision-making techniques to validate and optimise improvements.

1. Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all process improvement initiatives align with the organisation's Quality Management System (QMS) and ISO standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits and work closely with compliance and risk management teams to address process gaps.
• Support risk assessments for process inefficiencies, compliance failures, and operational vulnerabilities.

1. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with internal teams to implement and sustain improvements.
• Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and change management initiatives to ensure smooth adoption of new processes.
• Engage with suppliers, vendors, and contractors to drive supply chain and vendor quality improvements.

1. Digital Transformation & Technology Integration

• Support the implementation and optimisation of digital tools, including ERP systems, SharePoint, Basecamp, SCADA, and CMMS.
• Identify opportunities for automation and digitisation to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort.
• Ensure alignment between process improvements and the organisation's IT and data strategy.

Desired Skills & Qualifications

• Education: Undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Quality Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Experience: 5-7 years in process improvement, quality management, or operational efficiency roles, preferably in renewable energy, utilities, or infrastructure sectors. Proven experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen methodologies. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is advantageous. Strong understanding of ISO standards, Quality Management Systems, and experience with ISO Asset Management is preferred. Exposure to NERSA regulations, Eskom standards, SANS, and environmental regulations is a plus. Experience in solar PV plant construction, operation, and asset management is beneficial.

Skills

• Process Analysis and Design
• Quality Management Systems
• Improvement Methodologies
• Data Analysis and Problem-Solving
• Project Management
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Software Proficiency