Senior Industrial Engineer, Production Optimization

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Health insurance

Retirement plan with matching

Relocation assistance

Training & certifications

PTO / Paid vacation

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Industrial Engineer focused on Production Optimization. You will analyze production systems, drive lean manufacturing, Six Sigma and simulation to boost throughput and reduce costs in a high-volume automotive setting.

Lead cross-functional teams, mentor junior engineers, develop KPIs, and ensure safety and quality standards while implementing automation and new technologies in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, preferably automotive manufacturing.
• Proven track record leading production optimization projects.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt preferred), and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead analysis, design, and implementation of production process improvements.
• Develop strategies to optimize efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Apply lean and Six Sigma to reduce waste and variability.
• Use simulation software to model production scenarios and evaluate changes.
• Collaborate with production staff and management to solve operational challenges.
• Develop and track KPIs to monitor efficiency and project progress.
• Oversee SOPs and work instructions; manage upgrades, automation and new tech integration.
• Mentor junior engineers and production teams; ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Project management

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Hybrid work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

ProcessModel

Arena

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in the automotive manufacturing sector, is actively seeking a Senior Industrial Engineer specializing in Production Optimization. This crucial role is based in Pretoria, Gauteng , and requires a strategic thinker adept at enhancing manufacturing efficiency and productivity. You will be responsible for analyzing complex production systems, identifying opportunities for improvement, and implementing innovative solutions that drive cost savings and increase output. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process simulation. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape critical manufacturing processes, work with a high-performing team, and contribute significantly to our client's market leadership. We are looking for a proactive individual who can lead change initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the production environment. The successful applicant will play a key role in ensuring our client maintains its competitive edge through superior operational performance and technological integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the analysis, design, and implementation of improvements to production processes and systems.
• Develop and execute strategies for optimizing manufacturing efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies to eliminate waste and reduce variability.
• Utilize simulation software to model production scenarios and evaluate the impact of proposed changes.
• Collaborate with production staff, management, and other engineering disciplines to identify and address operational challenges.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor production efficiency and project progress.
• Oversee process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
• Manage projects related to production line upgrades, automation, and new technology integration.
• Provide technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineers and production teams.
• Ensure all process improvements comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, specifically within automotive manufacturing or a similar high-volume production environment.
• Proven track record in leading successful production optimization projects.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred), and continuous improvement techniques.
• Proficiency with simulation and modeling software (e.g., ProcessModel, Arena) and CAD tools.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team collaboration abilities.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Understanding of automation technologies and their application in manufacturing.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing on-site and remote tasks.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance bonus.
• Comprehensive health insurance plan.
• Retirement savings plan with matching contributions.
• Paid vacation and public holidays.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates.
• Access to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies in Pretoria .
• A collaborative and results-oriented work culture.
• Potential for advancement to higher management roles.