Process Improvement Specialist

Pele Energy Group; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a motivated Process Improvement Specialist to enhance operational efficiency within their diverse operations. This role is pivotal in driving continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring compliance with ISO standards, and fostering a culture of quality across all business units. You will analyze existing processes, identify optimization opportunities, and implement strategies that streamline workflows while reducing waste. If you're passionate about process improvement and eager to make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a team dedicated to innovation and excellence in operations.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in process improvement and quality management.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of ISO 9001:2015 and QMS.

Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all business units.
• Analyze processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement solutions.
• Ensure compliance with ISO standards and engage stakeholders.

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

Operations Management

Tools

ERP systems

SharePoint

Basecamp

SCADA

CMMS

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 9001:2015 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

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.

Process Optimisation & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements aligned with ISO 9001:2015, ISO 55000 (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.

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.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all process improvement initiatives align with the organisation’s Quality Management System (QMS) and ISO 9001:2015 standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits and work closely with the compliance and risk management teams to address process gaps.
• Support risk assessments for process inefficiencies, compliance failures, and operational vulnerabilities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with internal business unit 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.

Digital Transformation & Technology Integration

• Support the implementation and optimisation of digital tools, including ERP systems, SharePoint, Basecamp, SCADA, and CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management Systems).
• Identify opportunities for automation and digitisation of processes 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 that provides a strong foundation in process analysis, quality principles, and improvement methodologies.

Experience

• 5-7 years of demonstrable work experience in process improvement, quality management, or operational efficiency roles, preferably in the renewable energy, utilities, or infrastructure sectors.
• Proven experience in applying Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other process improvement methodologies to achieve measurable business results. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of ISO 9001:2015 and Quality Management Systems (QMS). Experience with ISO 55000 (Asset Management) is an advantage.
• Exposure to NERSA regulations, Eskom compliance standards, SANS, and environmental regulations is preferred.
• Experience working in solar PV plant construction, operation, and asset management is a plus.

Skills

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