Senior Industrial Engineer - Manufacturing Systems

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Engineer specializing in manufacturing systems for a fully remote role across South Africa. You will design, implement, and optimize advanced production processes that improve efficiency, quality, and scalability while collaborating with engineering, production, and IT teams.

The ideal candidate holds a Master's in Industrial Engineering with 7+ years in manufacturing systems, and demonstrates Lean, Six Sigma, MES/PLC/robotics expertise, and experience

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• At least 7 years of experience in industrial engineering focusing on manufacturing systems and automation.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement.
• Experience with MES and automation technologies (PLC, robotics).
• Proficient in simulation software Arena and FlexSim and data analysis tools.
• Strong project management, leadership, and remote collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced manufacturing systems and processes.
• Analyze workflows to identify automation opportunities and efficiency gains.
• Apply lean and Six Sigma to eliminate waste and boost productivity.
• Develop SOPs and work instructions.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for new technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate new systems.
• Use data analytics and simulation to model and optimize operations.
• Lead and mentor junior engineers on process improvement projects.
• Stay current with emerging manufacturing technologies and best practices.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Continuous improvement

Leadership

Data analysis

Remote collaboration

Project management

Simulation

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

MES

PLC

Robotics

Arena

FlexSim

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global innovator in advanced manufacturing, is actively seeking a Senior Industrial Engineer specializing in manufacturing systems. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in South Africa. You will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and optimizing state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and systems that drive efficiency, quality, and scalability. The role involves close collaboration with engineering, production, and IT teams to integrate sophisticated technologies and methodologies into our operations. Your deep understanding of automation, data analytics, and lean manufacturing principles will be essential for success in this dynamic, remote-first environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced manufacturing systems and processes.
• Analyze manufacturing workflows to identify opportunities for automation and efficiency gains.
• Apply lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to eliminate waste and improve productivity.
• Develop detailed process documentation, including SOPs and work instructions.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for new manufacturing technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of new systems.
• Utilize data analytics and simulation tools to model and optimize manufacturing operations.
• Lead and mentor junior engineers on process improvement projects.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in manufacturing engineering.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in industrial engineering, with a strong focus on manufacturing systems and automation.
• Proven expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with manufacturing execution systems (MES) and automation technologies (PLC, robotics).
• Proficiency in simulation software (e.g., Arena, FlexSim) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent project management and leadership skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a remote setting.
• A proactive approach to identifying and implementing innovative solutions.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers an attractive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, designed to attract and retain top talent. You will enjoy the flexibility of working from any location in South Africa while contributing to groundbreaking projects. Our client is dedicated to fostering employee growth through continuous learning opportunities and career development programs. Join a world‑class organization that prioritizes innovation, efficiency, and the well‑being of its remote workforce.