Production Lead – Biomass Manufacturing

JenRecruitment PTY Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A biomass production facility in Somerset West seeks a Production Focused Leader to drive production operations and implement sustainable practices. The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of leadership experience in manufacturing, with a strong focus on efficiency and quality management. You will manage logistics, train staff, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. This role offers significant impact in the biomass sector and opportunities for professional growth in an innovative environment.

Benefits

Collaborative environment

Growth opportunities

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of proven experience leading production teams.
• Ability to drive production output, quality, and efficiency.
• Hands-on experience with SOPs and continuous improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead biomass production and ensure quality and efficiency.
• Manage logistics, optimize plant machinery, and process wood.
• Oversee training and compliance with regulations.

Skills

Production leadership

Process-driven mindset

Data analysis for production efficiency

Manufacturing workflows understanding

Accountability in performance management

Education

Technical qualification in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, or similar

Job description

Overview

An exciting opportunity exists for a Production Focused Leader to become a key player in a newly established biomass production facility in Somerset West. You will be at the forefront of sustainable energy transformation, driving the production of biomass and its by-products for a wide range of industries. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone with a strong production & technical background.

Key Competencies

• Strong production leadership with the ability to manage, motivate, and develop teams
• Process-driven mindset with a focus on standardisation, compliance, and repeatability
• Ability to analyse production data and take corrective action to meet output and efficiency targets
• Strong understanding of manufacturing workflows, capacity planning, and bottleneck management
• High level of accountability for production performance and people management

Personal Attributes

• Results-oriented with a strong sense of ownership
• Disciplined, structured, and detail-focused
• Practical problem-solver with the ability to work on the shop floor
• Strong communication and leadership skills

Primary Responsibilities

• Technical qualification in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Process Engineering, or similar
• Lead biomass production operations, ensuring quality, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Manage logistics of raw feedstock delivery, plant machinery optimisation, and processing for wood shavings and wood pellets.
• Implement and streamline SOPs of the plant and ensure that all staff are sufficiently trained.
• Oversee production activities and supervise production staff.
• Monitor progress and performance to meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets.
• Maintain product quality and plant costs in line with KPIs.
• Coordinate with the Technical Manager on mechanical systems and maintenance.
• Implement preventive and corrective maintenance programs to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.
• Coordinate with Technical Manager to improve production efficiency and integrate new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage budgets, procurement, and inventory for mechanical components and production materials.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Responsible for all people management aspects which include recruitment, training, mentoring, performance management of staff.
• Promote a culture of safety and innovation.
• Align departmental goals with the company’s strategic vision.

Minimum Experience/Qualifications

• Proven 3-5 years’ experience leading production teams in a manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated ability to drive production output, efficiency, and quality
• Hands-on experience implementing and maintaining processes, SOPs, and work standards
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies
• Experience with biomass feedstock logistics is beneficial.
• Strong leadership, planning, and people-management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proven track record of delivering results through effective management and delegation.
• PC literate and comfortable interacting with management at all levels.

Why Join Us?

• Shape the future of biomass production and sustainable innovation in the Western Cape.
• Work in a collaborative environment with growth opportunities.

Make a tangible impact on environmental and industrial transformation

By submitting your application for this position, you consent to the retention of your personal information in our database for future employment opportunities. You also grant permission for your details to be reviewed by third parties solely for recruitment and employment purposes. Additionally, you confirm that all information provided is accurate and truthful. If you do not hear from us within 14 days, please consider your application for this role unsuccessful.