Senior Automotive Process Engineer: Lean & Automation

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Growth opportunities

Advanced technologies

Safety-focused culture

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, South Africa, is seeking a Senior Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer to optimize production lines and introduce automation. The role focuses on improving efficiency, quality and safety across automotive assembly processes.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with robotics, lean methods and IATF 16949, and will lead continuous improvement projects while mentoring plant staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Engineering.
• 8+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing process engineering.
• Deep knowledge of assembly line operations, automation and robotics.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles (Kaizen, Six Sigma).
• Experience with IATF 16949 quality management system.

Responsibilities

• Analyze, design and implement optimized manufacturing processes for automotive assembly.
• Improve assembly line layouts and tooling to reduce cycle times.
• Introduce new manufacturing technologies and automation solutions.
• Develop and implement robust quality control measures for product consistency.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with design, engineering and quality teams for manufacturability.
• Train and mentor staff on new processes, safety protocols and quality standards.
• Champion lean principles and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Problem solving

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Placements24 in East London, South Africa, is seeking a Senior Automotive Manufacturing Process Engineer to optimize production lines and introduce automation. The role focuses on improving efficiency, quality and safety across automotive assembly processes.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with robotics, lean methods and IATF 16949, and will lead continuous improvement projects while mentoring plant staff.