Senior Automotive Manufacturing Engineer

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Manufacturing Engineer for our Paarl site in the Western Cape. The role focuses on optimizing processes, improving efficiency, and driving continuous improvement in automotive component production.

A hands-on leader will implement lean methods, automation, and robotics to enhance quality and throughput. You will collaborate with design and R&D teams, develop SOPs, and train staff while balancing on-site oversight with strategic remote work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with strong automotive sector focus.
• Strong knowledge of lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methods.
• Experience with automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proficiency in CAD software for process design and tooling layout.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and throughput.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other CI initiatives across plants.
• Design and procure equipment and tooling, ensuring system integration.
• Troubleshoot production issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Collaborate with design engineers to ensure manufacturability of new products.
• Create and maintain SOPs and work instructions for processes.
• Train staff on new processes, equipment, and quality standards.
• Stay updated on new manufacturing technologies and best practices.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental regulations are met.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Automation

Robotics

CAD

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Communication

Leadership

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the automotive manufacturing industry, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Automotive Manufacturing Engineer to join their dynamic team in Paarl, Western Cape . This position is responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring the highest quality standards in the production of automotive components. You will be instrumental in implementing new manufacturing technologies, troubleshooting production issues, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. We are looking for an experienced engineer with a deep understanding of lean manufacturing principles, automation, and automotive production systems. The role requires a hands‑on approach, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams. This hybrid role offers a blend of on‑site oversight and remote flexibility, enabling strategic planning and focused execution. Your expertise will be critical in maintaining our client's competitive edge in the fast‑paced automotive market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for automotive components and assemblies to enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput.
• Analyze production data to identify areas for improvement, bottlenecks, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Lead the implementation of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Design and procure manufacturing equipment and tooling, ensuring integration with existing systems.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Collaborate with design engineers and R&D teams to ensure manufacturability of new product designs.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for manufacturing processes.
• Train production staff on new processes, equipment, and quality standards.
• Stay abreast of new manufacturing technologies and best practices in the automotive industry.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations in the manufacturing environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a significant focus on the automotive sector.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proficiency in CAD software for process design and tooling layout.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong understanding of quality control principles in a manufacturing environment.
• Effective communication, leadership, and team collaboration abilities.
• Experience in managing manufacturing‑related projects.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote strategic work with on‑site operational involvement.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and performance bonuses. You will have the opportunity to work on challenging projects in a modern manufacturing facility located in Paarl, Western Cape , with significant scope for professional development and career advancement. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work model that supports work-life balance. Access to ongoing training and development programs to stay at the forefront of manufacturing technology. Join a company that values innovation, quality, and employee growth in the thriving automotive sector.