Production Systems & Digitalization Lead - Manufacturing

Hire Resolve; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Chemistry lab seeks a Production Systems & Digitalization Lead in Port Elizabeth to oversee digital production systems. The role involves managing MES platforms, automation systems, and leading digital transformation projects in a high-performance manufacturing environment. Ideal candidates will have a robust background in engineering and IT, with a focus on implementing and integrating complex production systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' experience in manufacturing, production IT, or digitalization.
• Hands-on experience with MES platforms, SCADA, and historian systems required.
• Proven track record in leading SAP-related system integration projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain SQL/Oracle databases and production automation systems.
• Lead SAP-to-plant software integration projects across departments.
• Implement cybersecurity measures and manage disaster recovery plans.

Skills

Technical Communication

Project Management

Cybersecurity Knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Information Systems / Computer Science

Tools

MES platforms (Wonderware/AVEVA)

SCADA systems

Microsoft Power Platform

Job description

A leading Chemistry lab is looking for a Production Systems & Digitalization Lead to join their team in Port Elizabeth. The ideal candidate will take ownership of all digital production systems within a high-performance manufacturing environment. This senior technical specialist will lead system stability, integration, and digital advancement projects, focusing on MES platforms, automation systems, and SAP-to-plant integrations. The position combines engineering, IT, and project leadership, contributing directly to the company’s digital transformation and innovation roadmap.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and maintain the production application and server landscape, including SQL/Oracle databases, MES, and automation systems

• Ensure long-term system performance, reliability, and cybersecurity

• Implement and administer MES platforms (e.g., Wonderware/AVEVA), SCADA systems, and historian databases

• Lead SAP-to-plant software integration projects, coordinating between departments and vendors

• Drive the digitization of manual processes and deploy custom digital tools using Microsoft Power Platform (PowerApps, Power Automate, Power BI)

• Promote data-driven decision-making through application-level analytics and reporting

• Lead and manage automation and application-related projects with full compliance to change control and MOC standards

• Implement cybersecurity measures, patch management, backup systems, and disaster recovery plans

• Drive cross-site technical standardization and participate in global digital forums and strategic initiatives

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechatronic, or Industrial) and/or Information Systems / Computer Science

• Minimum 10 years' experience in manufacturing, production IT, automation, or industrial digitalization

• Dual-discipline experience (engineering and IT) essential

• Hands-on experience with MES platforms (preferably Wonderware/AVEVA), SCADA, and historian systems

• Proven track record in leading SAP-related system integration and rollout projects

• Experience with Microsoft Power Platform (PowerApps, Power BI, Power Automate)

• Knowledge of cybersecurity in industrial systems, MOC governance, and IT auditing practices

• Strong technical communication, independent work ethic, and ability to manage long-cycle projects

Benefits:

• Salary: negotiable.

Contact Hire Resolve for your next career-changing move.

Apply for this role today, contact Sonique Beetge at Hire Resolve or on LinkedIn.

You can also visit the Hire Resolve website: hireresolve.us or email us your CV: [e-mail]

We will contact you telephonically in 3 days should you be suitable for this vacancy. If you are not suitable, we will put your CV on file and contact you regarding any future vacancies that arise.