Senior Process Improvement Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Bonuses

Medical aid

Pension plan

Professional development

Six Sigma training

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is consulting for a leading manufacturing firm in Durban, seeking a Senior Process Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence and optimise production workflows. The role focuses on identifying inefficiencies and implementing sustainable process enhancements across departments.

You will lead Kaizen events, apply Lean Six Sigma, and collaborate cross-functionally to improve production processes while mentoring junior engineers and ensuring safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years in process improvement, operations, or industrial engineering roles.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green/Black Belt a strong advantage).
• Familiarity with data analysis software (Minitab, JMP, Excel).

Responsibilities

• Lead Kaizen events, Lean Six Sigma projects, and other CI initiatives.
• Analyse production processes to identify bottlenecks and waste for optimisation.
• Develop and implement process improvements using DMAIC, VSM, and 5S.
• Collaborate with operations, quality and engineering for project success.
• Design and standardise new procedures and work instructions.
• Train and mentor junior engineers on process improvement techniques.
• Collect and report KPIs related to efficiency and cost reduction.
• Utilise statistical analysis and data visualisation to support decisions.
• Ensure safety and quality standards are maintained.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt)

Data analysis

Problem solving

Project management

Leadership

ERP systems

Process simulation software

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Minitab

JMP

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturing firm in the industrial sector, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Process Improvement Engineer to join their dynamic team. This role is pivotal in driving operational excellence and optimising production workflows. The successful candidate will be instrumental in identifying inefficiencies, developing innovative solutions, and implementing sustainable process enhancements across various departments. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the company's productivity and profitability. The role is based in the vibrant city of **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**, a key industrial hub in South Africa. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, providing a challenging yet rewarding environment for ambitious professionals. This role is crucial for maintaining our client's competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute Kaizen events, Lean Six Sigma projects, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Analyse existing production processes, identifying bottlenecks, waste, and areas for optimisation.
• Develop and implement innovative process improvements using methodologies such as DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping, and 5S.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, quality, and engineering, to ensure successful project implementation.
• Design and standardise new operational procedures and work instructions.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and team members on process improvement techniques.
• Collect, analyse, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to process efficiency and cost reduction.
• Utilise statistical analysis and data visualisation tools to support decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards throughout all implemented processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in process improvement, operations management, or industrial engineering roles.
• Demonstrated experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt or Black Belt certification is a strong advantage).
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software (e.g., Minitab, JMP, Excel).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and process simulation software would be beneficial.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training, including Six Sigma certification.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and practices.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment in **Durban**.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organisation.