Project Manager - Automotive Manufacturing

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life assurance

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Port Elizabeth is seeking a seasoned Project Manager with automotive manufacturing expertise to lead new vehicle launch projects, line upgrades, and process improvements. You will manage scope, timelines, budgets, and resources, coordinating across engineering, production, quality, and supply chain in a hybrid work setting.

The role requires a solid grasp of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and IATF 16949, with strong leadership and communication to drive efficiency and

Qualifications

• 7+ years of project management experience in automotive manufacturing.
• Experience managing projects with budgets exceeding R7 million.
• Strong knowledge of automotive production systems and quality standards (IATF 16949).

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end lifecycle of automotive manufacturing projects from concept to production.
• Develop detailed project plans with resource allocation, budgets, and risk management.
• Coordinate activities across engineering, production, quality, supply chain and other departments.
• Implement and monitor KPIs to track project progress and success.
• Ensure projects meet quality standards and automotive regulations.
• Facilitate cross-functional team meetings and maintain clear stakeholder communication.
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure timely delivery of components and services.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within manufacturing processes.

Skills

Project management

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Analytical

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Smartsheet

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is actively recruiting for a Project Manager with expertise in the automotive manufacturing sector. This role is based in Port Elizabeth and requires a dynamic individual to oversee projects related to new vehicle launches, production line upgrades, and process improvements. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of automotive manufacturing principles, lean manufacturing techniques, and quality management systems (e.g., IATF 16949). You will be responsible for managing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring seamless integration and delivery. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. As a Project Manager in this demanding industry, you will play a vital role in driving efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness for our client within the Eastern Cape automotive hub. We seek a results-oriented professional with strong leadership and communication skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end lifecycle of automotive manufacturing projects, from concept to production.
• Develop detailed project plans, including resource allocation, budget control, and risk management.
• Coordinate activities between engineering, production, quality, supply chain, and other departments.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track project progress and success.
• Ensure projects meet stringent quality standards and automotive industry regulations.
• Facilitate cross-functional team meetings and maintain clear communication channels with all stakeholders.
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure timely delivery of components and services.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of project management experience, with a significant portion within the automotive manufacturing industry.
• Demonstrated experience managing projects with budgets exceeding R7 million.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive production systems, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma principles.
• Strong understanding of quality standards such as IATF 16949.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet) and ERP systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities in Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and life assurance. Opportunities for professional development, including industry-specific training and certifications, are actively encouraged. Employees benefit from a modern, collaborative work environment and exposure to cutting-edge automotive technologies. The hybrid work model supports work-life balance. Situated in Port Elizabeth , this role offers the chance to significantly impact the local automotive industry and advance your career within a global manufacturing leader.