Senior Industrial Operations Engineer

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings with company match

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work culture

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Industrial Operations Engineer for a fully remote role, leading efficiency and cost improvements across global industrial operations. You will apply Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced data analytics to identify bottlenecks, design innovative solutions, and drive measurable gains.

You will develop SOPs, performance metrics, and ROI-focused recommendations, while collaborating with cross-functional teams in a remote-first, global environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, operations management, or a similar role within manufacturing/industrial settings.
• Proven track record of process improvements improving efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma knowledge (Green/Black Belt preferred).
• Data analysis using SPC and data visualization software.
• Experience with simulation/modeling software (Arena, AnyLogic).
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience in remote/distributed teams and project management tools.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current processes, workflows, and data to identify bottlenecks and opportunities.
• Design and implement Lean/Six Sigma improvements to boost output, quality, safety, and cost efficiency.
• Develop SOPs and performance metrics and maintain process documentation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement improvements.
• Use simulation tools to validate proposed changes before implementation.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare reports and ROI-focused recommendations for senior management.
• Keep up-to-date with industry trends in industrial engineering and operational excellence.
• Mentor junior engineers and support staff in continuous improvement.
• Manage multiple projects with budget adherence.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Arena

AnyLogic

SPC

Tableau/Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in innovative process optimization, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Industrial Operations Engineer to join their dynamic and fully remote team. This pivotal role is instrumental in driving efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness across various industrial operations. You will leverage your expertise in lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and advanced data analytics to identify areas for improvement, develop strategic solutions, and implement impactful changes. As a remote-first organization, we are committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive virtual work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of industrial engineering from the comfort of your home office, working with a global team and tackling complex challenges that redefine industry standards. You will be at the forefront of technological advancements and process innovation, contributing directly to the success and growth of our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze current industrial processes, workflows, and operational data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for enhancement.
• Design, develop, and implement innovative solutions to improve production output, quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness, utilizing methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and performance metrics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, and management, to ensure seamless integration and successful execution of improvement initiatives.
• Utilize advanced simulation and modeling tools to test and validate proposed process changes before implementation.
• Conduct root cause analysis for production issues and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Develop and present comprehensive reports and recommendations to senior management, highlighting key findings, proposed solutions, and expected ROI.
• Stay abreast of the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices in industrial engineering and operational excellence.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and operational staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.
• Effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budgetary constraints.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, operations management, or a similar role within a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing process improvements that resulted in measurable gains in efficiency, quality, and cost reduction.
• In-depth knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred), and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques, including statistical process control (SPC) and data visualization software.
• Strong command of simulation and modeling software (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience working in a remote or distributed team environment, with strong self-discipline and time management skills.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the flexibility and autonomy that comes with working from home.

• generous paid time off
• health, dental, and vision insurance
• a retirement savings plan with company matching
• professional development opportunities including access to online courses and conferences
• a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and teamwork

We believe in work-life balance and provide the resources necessary for you to excel in your career while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Join our client and be part of a forward-thinking company that values your expertise and invests in your future.