Remote Industrial Engineering Lead - Network Design & Optimization

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-friendly role

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Professional development

Conference access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Industrial Engineering Lead to spearhead network design and optimization for our distributed teams across South Africa. This fully remote role focuses on transforming distribution and logistics networks, building advanced models, analyzing data, and delivering measurable efficiency gains.

You will guide a remote team, collaborate with stakeholders across functions, and present strategic recommendations for network reconfiguration and facility location.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, OR, SCM, or related field.
• 8+ years in industrial engineering focusing on network design, modeling and optimization.
• Experience leading network optimization in remote or distributed setups.
• Proficiency with network design/simulation tools and data analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and optimization of logistics and distribution networks.
• Develop network models to simulate scenarios and evaluate performance.
• Analyze large datasets to identify cost, efficiency, and service drivers.
• Present strategic recommendations for network reconfiguration and facility location.
• Mentor a remote team of industrial engineers and track KPIs.
• Prepare business cases for senior management to gain approvals.
• Ensure designs meet cost, SLA, and operational requirements.

Skills

Network design

Network optimization

Data analysis

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, SCM, or related field

Tools

LLamasoft

AnyLogic

Gurobi

SQL

Python

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished and strategic Industrial Engineering Lead to spearhead network design and optimization initiatives. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere in South Africa, with a focus on transforming our client's distribution and logistics networks. You will be responsible for developing sophisticated models, analyzing complex data sets, and architecting optimal network structures to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in network modeling, simulation, and a strong understanding of supply chain dynamics. As a remote leader, you will guide a virtual team, collaborate with stakeholders across various departments, and drive significant strategic improvements from a distance. This is a pivotal role for an experienced professional looking to make a substantial impact on a global scale.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of complex logistics and distribution networks. Develop advanced network models using specialized software to simulate scenarios and evaluate performance. Analyze large datasets to identify key drivers of cost, efficiency, and service levels within the network. Formulate and present strategic recommendations for network reconfiguration, facility location, and flow path optimization. Collaborate closely with supply chain, operations, and finance teams to ensure alignment of network strategies with business objectives. Manage and mentor a remote team of industrial engineers focused on network analysis. Develop and implement performance metrics and KPIs to continuously monitor and improve network efficiency. Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in network design and supply chain optimization. Prepare compelling business cases and presentations for senior management to gain approval for network initiatives. Ensure all network designs comply with operational requirements, cost constraints, and service level agreements.

Requirements

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Supply Chain Management, or a related quantitative field. A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with a strong specialization in network design, modeling, and optimization. Proven experience in leading complex network optimization projects, preferably in a remote or distributed environment. Advanced proficiency with network design and simulation software (e.g., LLamasoft, AnyLogic, Gurobi) and data analysis tools (e.g., SQL, Python, R). Deep understanding of supply chain principles, logistics, warehousing, and transportation management. Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated leadership ability, with experience managing and motivating remote teams. Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills. Experience working with cross-functional teams in a global organization is a plus. Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and comfortable working remotely.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering significant work-life balance and flexibility. Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including excellent health insurance and retirement savings plans, and substantial bonus opportunities. Professional development and continuous learning are strongly encouraged, with access to advanced training and industry conferences. You will have the autonomy to drive critical strategic initiatives impacting the company's global supply chain from wherever you are based, with a focus relevant to operations historically linked to Kimberley and the Northern Cape.