Senior Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work model

Advanced manufacturing technologies

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer in Mahikeng, North West, ZA to optimize and innovate production lines with advanced automation and robotics. You will develop, implement and troubleshoot processes, drive efficiency, quality and cost improvements, and lead CAPA initiatives across cross-functional teams.

The role requires a strong background in manufacturing engineering, lean principles, PLC/robotics experience, and relocation to Mahikeng if needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field and 6+ years in automotive manufacturing process engineering.
• Experience with process development, optimization, and automation in high-volume environments.
• Strong knowledge of lean principles and problem-solving methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and continuously improve manufacturing processes for automotive components focusing on efficiency, quality and safety.
• Analyze production data to identify optimization, waste reduction and cost-saving opportunities using lean principles.
• Design and troubleshoot automated assembly lines including robotics, PLC control systems and vision inspection.
• Develop SOPs and work instructions for manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with design and quality teams to ensure manufacturability and address issues.
• Lead root cause analysis for production problems and implement CAPA actions.
• Train and mentor production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Evaluate new manufacturing technologies and equipment to enhance capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations and environmental policies.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Data analysis

Problem solving

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Manufacturing Engineering

Industrial Engineering

Tools

PLC programming

Robotics

Automated assembly systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in automotive component manufacturing, is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Senior Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer . This role, based in Mahikeng, North West, ZA, will focus on optimizing and innovating manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. You will be instrumental in developing, implementing, and troubleshooting production lines, working with advanced automation and robotics. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in manufacturing engineering, lean principles, and a deep understanding of automotive production environments. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on production operations within a reputable and technologically advanced company in Mahikeng, North West, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing processes for automotive components, focusing on efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Analyze production data to identify areas for process optimization, waste reduction, and cost savings, applying lean manufacturing principles.
• Design and troubleshoot automated assembly lines, including robotics, PLC control systems, and vision inspection systems.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with design and quality engineering teams to ensure manufacturability of new products and address quality issues.
• Lead root cause analysis for production problems and implement corrective and preventative actions (CAPA).
• Train and mentor production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Evaluate and recommend new manufacturing technologies and equipment to improve production capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in automotive manufacturing process engineering.
• Proven experience in process development, optimization, and automation within a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen).
• Experience with PLC programming, robotics (e.g., KUKA, FANUC), and automated assembly systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis and problem-solving techniques.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with quality control systems and tools (e.g., FMEA, SPC).
• Familiarity with relevant automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Mahikeng, North West, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a retirement fund, and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• You will have access to advanced manufacturing technologies and opportunities for professional growth and development.
• The Hybrid work model allows for flexibility in managing your work schedule.
• Join a dynamic team in Mahikeng, North West, ZA, and contribute to the advancement of automotive manufacturing.