Senior Industrial Engineer - Plant Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual performance-based bonus

Extensive training and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Engineer for a premier automotive manufacturing facility in Durban. You will optimize plant operations, drive production efficiency, and implement cutting-edge IE solutions, collaborating with production, management, and engineering teams.

The role emphasizes lean manufacturing, simulation, and automation, with a focus on delivering measurable gains in productivity, quality, and cost reduction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field.
• 6+ years hands-on experience in industrial engineering within manufacturing, preferably automotive.
• Proven Lean Manufacturing expertise and tools (VSM, Kanban, Poka-Yoke).
• Strong proficiency with process simulation software and CAD tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and quantitative skills.
• Demonstrated project management capabilities with a track record of delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of improved manufacturing processes and production systems.
• Analyze plant operations to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Use simulation software to model and test process improvements and equipment integration.
• Execute lean manufacturing initiatives (value stream mapping, 5S, Kaizen events).
• Establish and track KPIs related to production output, efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve operational goals.
• Manage industrial engineering projects from initiation to completion on time and budget.
• Develop and maintain SOPs and work instructions for production processes.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and plant personnel on IE principles.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and automation solutions.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Simulation

Automation

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Project management

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Delmia

AnyLogic

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is actively seeking a highly skilled Senior Industrial Engineer to join their state-of-the-art facility in Durban . This critical role focuses on optimizing plant operations, enhancing production efficiency, and implementing cutting-edge industrial engineering solutions. You will be responsible for analyzing complex manufacturing processes, identifying areas for improvement, and leading projects that drive significant gains in productivity, quality, and cost reduction. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in lean manufacturing, simulation, and automation technologies. This position requires an individual with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, capable of working collaboratively with production teams, management, and engineering staff. You will play a key role in shaping the future of our manufacturing capabilities, ensuring we remain competitive and at the forefront of the industry. Located in the bustling port city of Durban , this role offers a fantastic opportunity to work on impactful projects within a supportive and dynamic environment. We value innovation and a commitment to excellence in all our operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of improved manufacturing processes and production systems.
• Conduct detailed analyses of plant operations, identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for cost savings.
• Utilize simulation software to model and test process improvements, layout changes, and new equipment integration.
• Develop and implement lean manufacturing initiatives, including value stream mapping, 5S, and Kaizen events.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production output, efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, quality, and maintenance, to achieve operational goals.
• Manage industrial engineering projects from initiation to completion, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for production processes.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and plant personnel on industrial engineering principles and best practices.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and automation solutions to enhance manufacturing capabilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in industrial engineering within a manufacturing environment, preferably automotive.
• Proven expertise in Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., VSM, Kanban, Poka-Yoke).
• Strong proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Delmia, AnyLogic) and CAD tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Demonstrated project management capabilities with a track record of successful project delivery.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment in Durban .
• Strong understanding of production planning and control systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Annual performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Extensive training and professional development programs.
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies and methodologies.
• A dynamic and supportive work culture in Durban .
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Opportunities for career progression within a globally recognized company.
• Wellness programs and employee support services.
• Generous annual leave allowance.