Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,450,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer to optimize and implement manufacturing processes in a demanding industrial environment. This role requires extensive Lean and Six Sigma expertise, plus hands-on production experience.

The ideal candidate will drive throughput, product quality, and safety improvements while ensuring regulatory compliance and leading continuous improvement initiatives. Relocation and travel may be required.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing process engineering.
• Strong Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma experience.
• Proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and simulation tools.
• Data-driven decision making and strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
• Experience with process automation and control systems.
• Willingness to travel and work in a heavy industrial environment.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and improve manufacturing processes to increase throughput and reduce defects.
• Develop, implement, and validate new processes and technologies.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement effective solutions.
• Use SPC to monitor process capability and stability.
• Collaborate with design, quality, and production teams.
• Develop and maintain process documentation and SOPs.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt)

Leadership

Data-driven decision making

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the heavy industrial sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer to join their expanding operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role focuses on the optimization, development, and implementation of manufacturing processes within a demanding industrial environment. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of knowledge in process improvement, statistical analysis, and hands‑on manufacturing experience. You will be responsible for enhancing production efficiency, reducing costs, improving product quality, and ensuring compliance with stringent safety and environmental standards. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute to a vital industry and play a key role in the company's strategic objectives. We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and improve existing manufacturing processes to increase throughput, reduce cycle times, and minimize defects.
• Develop, implement, and validate new manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Conduct in-depth root cause analysis for production issues and implement effective solutions.
• Utilize statistical process control (SPC) to monitor and control process capability and stability.
• Collaborate with design engineering, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure seamless product realization.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including work instructions, SOPs, and process flow diagrams.
• Lead and mentor junior engineers and technicians on process-related matters.
• Evaluate and recommend new equipment and tooling to enhance manufacturing capabilities.
• Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Participate in new product introduction (NPI) activities, providing process engineering support.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in manufacturing process engineering, preferably in heavy industry or automotive sectors.
• Proven expertise in Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt or Black Belt certification is a strong advantage).
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and simulation tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Experience with process automation and control systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, demanding manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects from concept to completion.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and able to travel occasionally if required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, a substantial pension fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• This role provides opportunities for significant professional growth, continuous learning, and exposure to cutting‑edge manufacturing technologies.
• Employees benefit from a supportive team environment and the chance to make a tangible impact in the industrial landscape of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .
• We value our employees and are committed to their long-term career development and well‑being.