Production Manager

Midvaal Recruitment; Knysna; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruiting firm in South Africa is seeking an experienced Technical Production Manager to oversee the production of boats and marine equipment. This role involves ensuring compliance with safety standards, managing production schedules, and leading the production team. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years in marine engineering, and proven leadership and project management skills. Competitive remuneration package offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in boat manufacturing, marine engineering, or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of boat construction methods, materials, and systems.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations in the marine industry.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and oversee final assembly stages of boat production.
• Ensure compliance with marine safety and regulatory standards.
• Lead, mentor, and manage production staff to foster improvement.

Skills

Project management

Technical operations

Team leadership

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Diploma in project, production or operations management

Tools

CAD software

Production scheduling tools

Quality control systems

Job description

Job Title: Technical Production Manager

Industry: Boating Industry

Location: Knysna, Cape Town

Job Overview

The Technical Production Manager is responsible for scheduling and overseeing the production, assembly, and technical quality of boats and marine equipment. This role ensures that manufacturing processes meet industry standards, production deadlines are met, the schedule is adhered to, and all products are built to the highest safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in project management, technical operations, team leadership, and problem-solving in a marine or manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Production Oversight

• Schedule, and oversee the final assembly stages of boat production, including assembly, testing, and commissioning
• Develop and implement efficient production processes to meet quality, cost, and time objectives.
• Monitor production schedules to ensure timely completion and delivery of projects.

Technical Management

• Ensure compliance with marine safety and regulatory standards (e.g., ABYC, ISO, CE, or other applicable standards).
• Identify and resolve technical and manufacturing issues, providing guidance to engineering and production teams.
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to optimize product manufacturability.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and manage production staff, ensuring proper training and development.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including procurement, quality control, and sales.

Quality Assurance

• Enhance and maintain existing quality control systems and procedures, working with QC department
• Conduct regular inspections and testing to ensure product quality and durability.
• Address customer feedback or complaints related to production issues.

Budget & Resource Management

• Develop and manage production schedules and budgets, ensuring cost efficiency.
• Oversee procurement of materials and equipment, optimizing inventory levels.
• Analyze production metrics and implement cost‑saving measures.

Qualifications

• Diploma in project, production or operations management would suffice
• 5+ years of experience in boat manufacturing, marine engineering, or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of boat construction methods, materials, and systems.
• Familiarity with CAD software, production scheduling tools, and quality control systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations in the marine industry.

Preferred Skills

• Project management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plus.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles.
• Hands‑on experience with fiberglass, aluminum, or composite boat building.
• Understanding of supply chain and logistics in the marine industry.

Work Environment

• Split between office, manufacturing floor, and boatyard environments.
• May require occasional travel to suppliers, clients, or trade shows.
• Exposure to outdoor conditions and marine environments.

Remuneration Package

• 50K Gross per month